How long should I stretch for? An investigation into the effects of static stretching over time on the flexibility of the posterior thigh
Item
- Title
- How long should I stretch for? An investigation into the effects of static stretching over time on the flexibility of the posterior thigh
- Author(s)
- Hagga Rob
- Abstract
- The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of varying durations of static stretching on the flexibility of the structures of the posterior thigh as measured by passive knee extension.Sixty-four subjects were randomly assigned to a control group (n=23), 30 second stretching group (n=20) and 60 second stretching group (n=21). The groups that were instructed to stretch, i.e. the 30 and 60 second groups, did so for their allocated time once each day, for 5 days each week, for a three week period. All three groups were assessed as to their range of movement in passive knee extension prior to, and following, the experimental period.Data analysis comparing intra-group mean differences was carried out and revealed statistically significant changes in the 30 second stretching group but no significant changes in the control or 60 second stretching group. This finding was true in both compliant and non-compliant subjects. Further analysis revealed significant inter-group differences between 30 and 60 second compliant subjects (significance being indicated by a p value of ? 0.05) but this was due to the loss of flexibility in the latter group. The results of this study suggest that in order to maximise range of movement as measured by passive knee extension, 30 seconds of stretching, at a frequency of 5 stretches each day, over a three week period is more effective than stretching for 60 seconds or not stretching at all. It also shows that stretching for 60 seconds offers no advantage over not stretching at all. In the light of the conflict between previous research and these findings, the use of 60 seconds as a duration for which a static stretch should be held may require closer investigation.
- Abstract
- presented at
- British School of Osteopathy
- Date Accepted
- 2000
- Date Submitted
- 31.7.2000 00:00:00
- Type
- undergraduate_project
- Language
- English
- Submitted by:
- 62
- Pub-Identifier
- 12216
- Inst-Identifier
- 780
- Keywords
- Thigh,Stretching,Osteopathic Treatment,Hamstrings,Flexibility
- Recommended
- 0
- Item sets
- Thesis
Hagga Rob, “How long should I stretch for? An investigation into the effects of static stretching over time on the flexibility of the posterior thigh”, Osteopathic Research Web, accessed April 28, 2024, https://www.osteopathicresearch.com/s/orw/item/2246