The aim of the current study was to investigate the influence of chronic stretching on muscle performance MP by a systematic review. Randomized and controlled clinical trials, non-randomized, and single group studies that have analyzed the influence of flexibility training FT using any stretching technique on MP were included.
The MP assessment could have been performed by functional tests e. Twenty-eight studies were included out of Seven studies evaluated MP by stretch-shortening cycle tasks, Ten studies evaluated MP by isometric contractions, and 13 studies assessed MP by isotonic contractions.
We were unable to perform a meta-analysis due to the high heterogeneity among the included studies. In an individual study level analysis, we identified that 14 studies found positive effects of chronic stretching on MP. The improvements were observed only in functional tests and isotonic contractions, isometric contractions were not affected by FT. Therefore, FT might have an influence on dynamic MP. However, more studies are necessary to confirm whether FT can positively affect MP.
Keywords: Athletic performance; Flexibility; Muscle strength; Stretch-shortening cycle. Abstract The aim of the current study was to investigate the influence of chronic stretching on muscle performance MP by a systematic review.
Publication types Review Systematic Review.
