Effect of Passive Warm-Up Using High-Voltage Pulsed-Current Electrical Stimulation on Jump Performance in Young Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background Warm-ups optimize athletic performance; however, excessively active warm-ups may induce fatigue. Passive warm-up strategies, including thermotherapy, offer physiological benefits, although their immediate performance effects are unclear. High-voltage pulsed-current (HVPC) electrical stimulation, used in rehabilitation to activate deep muscles, has not been fully explored as a warm-up strategy. This study examined the immediate effects of short-duration HVPC stimulation combined with abdominal hollowing exercises on jump performance. Methods A total of 36 healthy participants were randomly assigned to the HVPC (n = 18) or control (n = 18) group. The HVPC group performed abdominal hollowing exercises with HVPC stimulation for 4 minutes, while the control group performed the exercises without electrical stimulation. The rebound jump (RJ) index, jump height, and ground contact time were measured before and after the intervention. A paired t-test was used to compare the pre- and post-experiment measurements. Results The HVPC group showed a significant increase in jump height (pre 31.95 +/- 6.42 vs post 33.64 +/- 6.61) (p < 0.05) and RJ index (pre 1.67 +/- 0.47 vs post 1.75 +/- 0.44) (p < 0.05) post-intervention, whereas the ground contact time remained unchanged. The control group showed no significant changes in any parameter. Conclusion Short-duration HVPC stimulation combined with abdominal hollowing exercises improved jump performance. HVPC-assisted warm-ups show potential, particularly in sports. Copyright © 2025, Wachi et al.