Effects of Dynamic Tape Application to the Gastrocnemius Muscles on Squat Jump Performance: A Quasi-Experimental Pilot Trial
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.71399/6d9f6k39Keywords:
Dynamic Tape, Squat Jump, gastrocnemius, motor performance, sports physiotherapyAbstract
Introduction: The squat jump (SJ) is a functional test of lower-limb explosive strength; the gastrocnemius muscles are key to the propulsion phase. Dynamic Tape, due to its viscoelastic properties and high extensibility, may store and return mechanical energy, potentially optimizing motor performance.
Objective: To examine the immediate effects of Dynamic Tape applied to the gastrocnemius on SJ performance in healthy adults.
Methods: Quasi-experimental study with eight healthy participants. Three pre- and three post-taping trials were collected; jump height and flight time were measured using an ErgoJump platform. Data were analyzed with the Wilcoxon signed-rank test for paired samples (α=0.05).
Results: No statistically significant differences were observed in jump height (p=0.674) or flight time (p=0.833) after taping.
Conclusion: Immediate application of Dynamic Tape to the gastrocnemius did not improve SJ performance in this sample. Potential benefits may not translate into measurable gains in brief explosive tasks; larger samples and longer exposure protocols are recommended.
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