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Warneke K, Behm DG, Alizadeh S, Hillebrecht M, Konrad A, Wirth K. Discussing Conflicting Explanatory Approaches in Flexibility Training Under Consideration of Physiology: A Narrative Review. Sports Med 2024; 54:1785-1799. [PMID: 38819597 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-024-02043-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
The mechanisms underlying range of motion enhancements via flexibility training discussed in the literature show high heterogeneity in research methodology and study findings. In addition, scientific conclusions are mostly based on functional observations while studies considering the underlying physiology are less common. However, understanding the underlying mechanisms that contribute to an improved range of motion through stretching is crucial for conducting comparable studies with sound designs, optimising training routines and accurately interpreting resulting outcomes. While there seems to be no evidence to attribute acute range of motion increases as well as changes in muscle and tendon stiffness and pain perception specifically to stretching or foam rolling, the role of general warm-up effects is discussed in this paper. Additionally, the role of mechanical tension applied to greater muscle lengths for range of motion improvement will be discussed. Thus, it is suggested that physical training stressors can be seen as external stimuli that control gene expression via the targeted stimulation of transcription factors, leading to structural adaptations due to enhanced protein synthesis. Hence, the possible role of serial sarcomerogenesis in altering pain perception, reducing muscle stiffness and passive torque, or changes in the optimal joint angle for force development is considered as well as alternative interventions with a potential impact on anabolic pathways. As there are limited possibilities to directly measure serial sarcomere number, longitudinal muscle hypertrophy remains without direct evidence. The available literature does not demonstrate the necessity of only using specific flexibility training routines such as stretching to enhance acute or chronic range of motion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin Warneke
- Institute of Human Movement Science, Sport and Health, University of Graz, Graz, Austria.
- Department of Movement Sciences, Institute of Sport Science, University of Klagenfurt, Universitatsstraße 65, 9020, Klagenfurt Am Wörthersee, Austria.
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada.
| | - David G Behm
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Shahab Alizadeh
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
- Human Performance Lab, Department of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Martin Hillebrecht
- University Sports Center, Carl Von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Konrad
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
- University Sports Center, Carl Von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Klaus Wirth
- University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt, Vienna, Austria
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Warneke K, Lohmann LH, Wilke J. Effects of Stretching or Strengthening Exercise on Spinal and Lumbopelvic Posture: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2024; 10:65. [PMID: 38834878 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-024-00733-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abnormal posture (e.g. loss of lordosis) has been associated with the occurrence of musculoskeletal pain. Stretching tight muscles while strengthening the antagonists represents the most common method to treat the assumed muscle imbalance. However, despite its high popularity, there is no quantitative synthesis of the available evidence examining the effectiveness of the stretch-and-strengthen approach. METHODS A systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted, searching PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar. We included controlled clinical trials investigating the effects of stretching or strengthening on spinal and lumbopelvic posture (e.g., pelvic tilt, lumbar lordosis, thoracic kyphosis, head tilt) in healthy individuals. Effect sizes were pooled using robust variance estimation. To rate the certainty about the evidence, the GRADE approach was applied. RESULTS A total of 23 studies with 969 participants were identified. Neither acute (d = 0.01, p = 0.97) nor chronic stretching (d=-0.19, p = 0.16) had an impact on posture. Chronic strengthening was associated with large improvements (d=-0.83, p = 0.01), but no study examined acute effects. Strengthening was superior (d = 0.81, p = 0.004) to stretching. Sub-analyses found strengthening to be effective in the thoracic and cervical spine (d=-1.04, p = 0.005) but not in the lumbar and lumbopelvic region (d=-0.23, p = 0.25). Stretching was ineffective in all locations (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION Moderate-certainty evidence does not support the use of stretching as a treatment of muscle imbalance. In contrast, therapists should focus on strengthening programs targeting weakened muscles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin Warneke
- Institute of Sport Science, Department of Movement Sciences, Alpen-Adrian-University Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt, Austria
| | - Lars Hubertus Lohmann
- Department of Human Movement Science and Exercise Physiology, Institute of Sport Science, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany.
| | - Jan Wilke
- Institute of Sport Science, Department of Movement Sciences, Alpen-Adrian-University Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt, Austria
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Wohlann T, Warneke K, Kalder V, Behm DG, Schmidt T, Schiemann S. Influence of 8-weeks of supervised static stretching or resistance training of pectoral major muscles on maximal strength, muscle thickness and range of motion. Eur J Appl Physiol 2024; 124:1885-1893. [PMID: 38240811 PMCID: PMC11129965 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-023-05413-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Current research suggests static stretch-induced maximal strength increases and muscle hypertrophy with potential to substitute resistance-training routines. However, most studies investigated the plantar flexors. This study explored the effects of a static stretching program on maximal strength, hypertrophy and flexibility of the pectoralis major and compared the effects with those of traditional resistance training. METHODS Eighty-one (81) active participants were allocated to either a static stretching, strength-training or control group. Pectoralis stretching was applied 15 min/day, 4 days per week for 8 weeks, while resistance training trained 3 days per week, 5 × 12 repetitions. RESULTS There was an increase in all parameters (strength: p < 0.001, ƞ2 = 0.313, muscle thickness: p < 0.001, ƞ2 = 0.157-0.264, flexibility: p < 0.001, ƞ2 = 0.316) and a time*group interaction (strength: p = 0.001, ƞ2 = 0.154, muscle thickness: p = 0.008-0.001, ƞ2 = 0.117-0.173, flexibility: p < 0.001, ƞ2 = 0.267). Post-hoc testing showed no difference between both intervention groups regarding maximal strength and muscle thickness (p = 0.905-0.983, d = 0.036-0.087), while flexibility increased in the stretching group (p = 0.001, d = 0.789). CONCLUSION Stretching showed increases in maximal strength and hypertrophy, which were comparable with commonly used resistance training. Based on current literature, the influence of mechanical tension as the underlying mechanism is discussed. Furthermore, as equipment and comparatively long stretching durations are requested to induce meaningful strength increases in recreationally active participants, practical application seems limited to special circumstances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Wohlann
- Institute for Exercise, Sport and Health, Leuphana University, Lüneburg, Germany.
- Institute of Sport Science, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany.
| | - Konstantin Warneke
- Institute of Sport Science, Alpen-Adria-University Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt Am Wörthersee, Austria
| | - Vincent Kalder
- Institute of Sport Science, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - David G Behm
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Tobias Schmidt
- Department of Sport Science, Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stephan Schiemann
- Institute for Exercise, Sport and Health, Leuphana University, Lüneburg, Germany
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Konrad A, Alizadeh S, Anvar SH, Fischer J, Manieu J, Behm DG. Static Stretch Training versus Foam Rolling Training Effects on Range of Motion: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Sports Med 2024:10.1007/s40279-024-02041-0. [PMID: 38760635 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-024-02041-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long-term static stretching as well as foam rolling training can increase a joint's range of motion (ROM). However, to date, it is not clear which method is the most effective for increasing ROM. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare the effects of static stretching and foam rolling training on ROM. METHODS The literature search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science to find the eligible studies. Eighty-five studies (72 on static stretching; and 13 on foam rolling) were found to be eligible with 204 effect sizes (ESs). For the main analyses, a random-effect meta-analysis was applied. To assess the difference between static stretching and foam rolling, subgroup analyses with a mixed-effect model were applied. Moderating variables were sex, total intervention duration, and weeks of intervention. RESULTS Static stretch (ES = - 1.006; p < 0.001), as well as foam rolling training (ES = - 0.729; p = 0.001), can increase joint ROM with a moderate magnitude compared with a control condition. However, we did not detect a significant difference between the two conditions in the subgroup analysis (p = 0.228). When the intervention duration was ≤ 4 weeks, however, a significant change in ROM was shown following static stretching (ES = - 1.436; p < 0.001), but not following foam rolling (ES = - 0.229; p = 0.248). Thus, a subgroup analysis indicated a significant favorable effect with static stretching for increasing ROM compared with foam rolling (p < 0.001) over a shorter term (≤ 4 weeks). Other moderator analyses showed no significant difference between static stretch and foam rolling training on ROM. CONCLUSIONS According to the results, both static stretching and foam rolling training can be similarly recommended to increase joint ROM, unless the training is scheduled for ≤ 4 weeks, in which case static stretching demonstrates a significant advantage. More studies are needed with a high-volume foam rolling training approach as well as foam rolling training in exclusively female participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Konrad
- Institute of Human Movement Science, Sport and Health, Graz University, Mozartgasse 14, 8010, Graz, Austria.
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada.
| | - Shahab Alizadeh
- Human Performance Lab, Department of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Saman Hadjizadeh Anvar
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Josef Fischer
- Institute of Human Movement Science, Sport and Health, Graz University, Mozartgasse 14, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Josefina Manieu
- Institute of Human Movement Science, Sport and Health, Graz University, Mozartgasse 14, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - David G Behm
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
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Warneke K, Lohmann LH, Behm DG, Wirth K, Keiner M, Schiemann S, Wilke J. Effects of Chronic Static Stretching on Maximal Strength and Muscle Hypertrophy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis with Meta-Regression. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2024; 10:45. [PMID: 38637473 PMCID: PMC11026323 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-024-00706-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increases in maximal strength and muscle volume represent central aims of training interventions. Recent research suggested that the chronic application of stretch may be effective in inducing hypertrophy. The present systematic review therefore aimed to syntheisize the evidence on changes of strength and muscle volume following chronic static stretching. METHODS Three data bases were sceened to conduct a systematic review with meta-analysis. Studies using randomized, controlled trials with longitudinal (≥ 2 weeks) design, investigating strength and muscle volume following static stretching in humans, were included. Study quality was rated by two examiners using the PEDro scale. RESULTS A total of 42 studies with 1318 cumulative participants were identified. Meta-analyses using robust variance estimation showed small stretch-mediated maximal strength increases (d = 0.30 p < 0.001) with stretching duration and intervention time as significant moderators. Including all studies, stretching induced small magnitude, but significant hypertrophy effects (d = 0.20). Longer stretching durations and intervention periods as well as higher training frequencies revealed small (d = 0.26-0.28), but significant effects (p < 0.001-0.005), while lower dosage did not reach the level of significance (p = 0.13-0.39). CONCLUSIONS While of minor effectiveness, chronic static stretching represents a possible alternative to resistance training when aiming to improve strength and increase muscle size. As a dose-response relationship may exist, higher stretch durations and frequencies as well as long program durations should be further elaborated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin Warneke
- Institute of Human Movement Science, Sport and Health, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- Department of Movement Sciences, University of Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt am Wörthersee, Austria
| | - Lars Hubertus Lohmann
- Department of Human Motion Science and Exercise Physiology, Friedrich Schiller University, 07743, Jena, Germany.
| | - David G Behm
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Newfoundland and Labrador, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Canada
| | - Klaus Wirth
- University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt, Wiener Neustadt, Austria
| | - Michael Keiner
- Department of Sport Science, German University of Health & Sport, Ismaning, Germany
| | - Stephan Schiemann
- Institute of Exercise, Sport and Health, Leuphana University, Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Jan Wilke
- Department of Movement Sciences, University of Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt am Wörthersee, Austria
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Wohlann T, Warneke K, Behm DG, Schiemann S. Comparison of Supervised versus Self-Administered Stretching on Bench Press Maximal Strength and Force Development. Sports (Basel) 2024; 12:109. [PMID: 38668577 PMCID: PMC11054409 DOI: 10.3390/sports12040109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE While there is reported superior effectiveness with supervised training, it usually requires specialized exercise facilities and instructors. It is reported in the literature that high-volume stretching improves pectoralis muscles strength under supervised conditions while practical relevance is discussed. Therefore, the study objective was to compare the effects of volume equated, supervised- and self-administered home-based stretching on strength performance. METHODS Sixty-three recreational participants were equally assigned to either a supervised static stretching, home-based stretching, or control group. The effects of 15 min pectoralis stretching, 4 days per week for 8 weeks, were assessed on dynamic and isometric bench press strength and force development. RESULTS While there was a large magnitude maximal strength increase (p < 0.001-0.023, ƞ2 = 0.118-0.351), force development remained unaffected. Dynamic maximal strength in both groups demonstrated large magnitude increases compared to the control group (p < 0.001-0.001, d = 1.227-0.905). No differences between the intervention group for maximal strength (p = 0.518-0.821, d = 0.101-0.322) could be detected. CONCLUSIONS The results could potentially be attributed to stretch-induced tension (mechanical overload) with subsequent anabolic adaptations, and alternative explanatory approaches are discussed. Nevertheless, home-based stretching seems a practical alternative to supervised training with potential meaningful applications in different settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Wohlann
- Institute for Exercise, Sport and Health, Leuphana University, 21335 Lüneburg, Germany; (T.W.)
- University Sports Centre, Carl of Ossietzky University Oldenburg, 26129 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Konstantin Warneke
- Institute of Movement Science, Sport and Health, Karl-Franzens University Graz, 8020 Graz, Austria
| | - David G. Behm
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL A1C 5S7 P.O. Box 4200, Canada;
| | - Stephan Schiemann
- Institute for Exercise, Sport and Health, Leuphana University, 21335 Lüneburg, Germany; (T.W.)
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Warneke K, Freundorfer P, Plöschberger G, Behm DG, Konrad A, Schmidt T. Effects of chronic static stretching interventions on jumping and sprinting performance-a systematic review with multilevel meta-analysis. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1372689. [PMID: 38595642 PMCID: PMC11002243 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1372689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
When improving athletic performance in sports with high-speed strength demands such as soccer, basketball, or track and field, the most common training method might be resistance training and plyometrics. Since a link between strength capacity and speed strength exists and recently published literature suggested chronic stretching routines may enhance maximum strength and hypertrophy, this review was performed to explore potential benefits on athletic performance. Based on current literature, a beneficial effect of static stretching on jumping and sprinting performance was hypothesized. A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science and Google scholar. In general, 14 studies revealed 29 effect sizes (ES) (20 for jumping, nine for sprinting). Subgroup analyses for jump performance were conducted for short- long- and no stretch shortening cycle trials. Qualitative evaluation was supplemented by performing a multilevel meta-analysis via R (Package: metafor). Significant positive results were documented in six out of 20 jump tests and in six out of nine sprint tests, while two studies reported negative adaptations. Quantitative data analyses indicated a positive but trivial magnitude of change on jumping performance (ES:0.16, p = 0.04), while all subgroup analyses did not support a positive effect (p = 0.09-0.44). No significant influence of static stretching on sprint performance was obtained (p = 0.08). Stretching does not seem to induce a sufficient stimulus to meaningfully enhance jumping and sprinting performance, which could possibly attributed to small weekly training volumes or lack of intensity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin Warneke
- Institute of Human Movement Science, Sport and Health, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- Institute of Sport Science, University of Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt am Wörthersee, Austria
| | - Patrik Freundorfer
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, MSH Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gerit Plöschberger
- Institute of Sport Science, University of Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt am Wörthersee, Austria
| | - David G. Behm
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL, Canada
| | - Andreas Konrad
- Institute of Human Movement Science, Sport and Health, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL, Canada
| | - Tobias Schmidt
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, MSH Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
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Warneke K, Konrad A, Wilke J. The knowledge of movement experts about stretching effects: Does the science reach practice? PLoS One 2024; 19:e0295571. [PMID: 38277378 PMCID: PMC10817148 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Stretching is performed with numerous purposes in multiple settings such as prevention, rehabilitation, fitness training and sports. Its patterns of use substantially depend on the education and beliefs of health care and exercise professionals as they represent the multiplicators recommending and prescribing interventions to clients, patients and athletes. This study investigated movement experts' knowledge about the scientific evidence on stretching effects. DESIGN Survey study. PARTICIPANTS A total of 117 exercise and health professionals (physiotherapists, sports scientists, coaches) attending a training convention in Austria (male: n = 44, female: n = 73, 36±11 years) completed a digital survey. With its 22 items, the questionnaire addressed the movement experts' awareness of the evidence on stretching effects regarding a variety of related topics selected based on the findings of topical systematic reviews. RESULTS The majority of the individuals (57-88%) assumed positive effects of stretching on recovery, prevention of muscle injury, range of motion, muscular imbalance and artery elasticity. No or adverse effects were mostly claimed on bone injury prevention, maximal/explosive strength, and delayed-onset muscle soreness. In only 10 of 22 items, participants' classifications were in accord with the scientific evidence. CONCLUSIONS The awareness of research findings on stretching effects among exercise and health professionals is alarmingly low. Future studies may hence be geared to improve implementation and science communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin Warneke
- Institute of Sport Science, Alpen-Adria-University Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt am Wörthersee, Austria
| | - Andreas Konrad
- Institute of Human Movement Science, Sport and Health, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Jan Wilke
- Institute of Sport Science, Alpen-Adria-University Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt am Wörthersee, Austria
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Konrad A, Reiner M, Manieu J, Fischer J, Schöpflin A, Tilp M, Behm DG. The non-local effects of 7-week foot sole static stretching and foam rolling training on shoulder extension range of motion. Front Sports Act Living 2024; 5:1335872. [PMID: 38283121 PMCID: PMC10810996 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2023.1335872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Static stretching and foam rolling can increase the range of motion (ROM) of a joint acutely as well as chronically. Although studies have reported ROM increases of a non-stretched heterologous muscle (non-local) following an acute static stretching or foam rolling session, these effects have not been studied for long-term training interventions. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of a comprehensive 7-week static stretching and foam rolling training program of the foot sole on shoulder extension ROM. A total of 33 healthy, physically active participants (20 male) were assigned to either the intervention (n = 19) or control (n = 14) group. The intervention group performed a 7-week combined static stretching and foam rolling intervention comprising three sessions a week, including three exercises of the foot sole for 5 min each. Before and after the intervention period, the shoulder extension ROM was tested with three-dimensional (3D) motion caption. The level of significance for all statistical analyses was set to ρ ≤ 0.05. There was no significant time (p = 0.70, F1, 31 = 0.157; η2 = 0.005) or time×group effect (p = 0.38, F1, 31 = 0.785; η2 = 0.025) in shoulder extension ROM, indicating no ROM changes in the intervention or the control group. Although previous studies on the acute effects of stretching and foam rolling reported non-local increases in ROM in heterologous muscles, this study could show that such effects do not occur after chronic SS and foam rolling training for 7 weeks. Consequently, if the goal is to chronically increase the ROM of a specific joint, it is recommended to directly treat the muscles of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Konrad
- Institute of Human Movement Science, Sports and Health, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL, Canada
| | - Marina Reiner
- Institute of Human Movement Science, Sports and Health, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Josefina Manieu
- Institute of Human Movement Science, Sports and Health, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Josef Fischer
- Institute of Human Movement Science, Sports and Health, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Adrian Schöpflin
- Institute of Human Movement Science, Sports and Health, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Markus Tilp
- Institute of Human Movement Science, Sports and Health, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - David G. Behm
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL, Canada
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Warneke K, Hillebrecht M, Claassen-Helmers E, Wohlann T, Keiner M, Behm DG. Effects of a Home-Based Stretching Program on Bench Press Maximum Strength and Shoulder Flexibility. J Sports Sci Med 2023; 22:597-604. [PMID: 38045741 PMCID: PMC10690509 DOI: 10.52082/jssm.2023.597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Recent research showed significant stretch-mediated maximum strength increases when performing stretching between 5 to 120 minutes per day with the calf muscle. However, since the practical applicability of these long stretching durations was questioned and studies exploring the transferability to the upper body are scarce, the aim of this study was to investigate the possibility of using a home-based stretching program to induce significant increases in maximum strength and flexibility. Therefore, 31 recreationally active participants (intervention group: 18, control group: 13) stretched the pectoralis major for 15min/day for eight weeks, incorporating three different stretching exercises. The maximum strength was tested isometrically and dynamically in the bench press (one-repetition maximum: 1RM) as well as shoulder range of motion (ROM) performing bilateral shoulder rotation with a scaled bar. Using a two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with repeated measures, the results showed high magnitude Time effects (ƞ² = 0.388-0.582, p < 0.001) and Group*Time interaction (ƞ² = 0.281-0.53, p < 0.001-0.002), with increases of 7.4 ± 5.6% in 1RM and of 9.8 ± 5.0% in ROM test in the intervention group. In the isometric testing, there was a high-magnitude Time effect (ƞ² = 0.271, p = 0.003), however, the Group*Time interaction failed to reach significance (p = 0.75). The results are in line with previous results that showed stretch-mediated maximum strength increases in the lower extremity. Future research should address the underlying physiological mechanisms such as muscle hypertrophy, contraction conditions as well as pointing out the relevance of intensity, training frequency and stretching duration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin Warneke
- Institute of Sport Science, Alpen-Adria-University Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt, Austria
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - Martin Hillebrecht
- University Sports Center, Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany
| | | | - Tim Wohlann
- University Sports Center, Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Michael Keiner
- Institute of Exercise and Training Science, German University of Health and Sport, Ismaning, Germany
| | - David G Behm
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
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