Category
Applied
Description
Background: This study examined the effect of short duration static stretching on power output from a maximal cycling test called a Wingate test. There are debates in the current literature on whether static stretching or a different method is best to include in the warmup to enhance subsequent performance. Static stretching has been shown to have a negative effect on muscle strength and power due to changes in musculotendinous stiffness, neuromuscular factors, and reflex sensitivities. It has been suggested that short duration static stretching does not have a negative impact on performance, but longer duration does. Methods: 17 females volunteered to participate in this study; they performed two Wingate tests on separate days and followed a static stretching protocol before their first Wingate. Results: The results from this study were not statistically significant, although some trends in the data may support the notion that static stretching has a negative impact on power output. More research is needed on this topic. Conclusions: Our results support the suggestion of only including static stretching in the warmup if it is short in duration and it may be best to perform dynamic stretching instead especially if the subsequent activity involves high power or strength.
Effect of Static Stretching on Power Output During a Wingate Test
Applied
Background: This study examined the effect of short duration static stretching on power output from a maximal cycling test called a Wingate test. There are debates in the current literature on whether static stretching or a different method is best to include in the warmup to enhance subsequent performance. Static stretching has been shown to have a negative effect on muscle strength and power due to changes in musculotendinous stiffness, neuromuscular factors, and reflex sensitivities. It has been suggested that short duration static stretching does not have a negative impact on performance, but longer duration does. Methods: 17 females volunteered to participate in this study; they performed two Wingate tests on separate days and followed a static stretching protocol before their first Wingate. Results: The results from this study were not statistically significant, although some trends in the data may support the notion that static stretching has a negative impact on power output. More research is needed on this topic. Conclusions: Our results support the suggestion of only including static stretching in the warmup if it is short in duration and it may be best to perform dynamic stretching instead especially if the subsequent activity involves high power or strength.
