Effect of acute antagonist static stretching on upper-body agonist power

Elliott, David ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4790-2354 and Massey, Dayne (2020) Effect of acute antagonist static stretching on upper-body agonist power. International Journal of Sports Science and Coaching, 15 (1). pp. 53-59.

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Abstract

There are many studies showing acute static stretching to be detrimental to power generation. However, the majority have focused upon the impact of stretching the agonist musculature. To date, few have examined the potential benefits of acute antagonist static stretching; none have focused on upper-body power. Utilising a repeated-measures design, 30 male participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups whereupon they performed four bench-throw tests; two control (NO-STRETCH) and two experimental (STRETCH), in a counter-balanced manner. Prior to the experimental measures, participants undertook a series of static antagonist stretches. Mean Pmax (SD) in the NO-STRETCH trials was 862.76 (146)W and 898.50 (144)W, respectively. For STRETCH trial 1, Pmax = 930.10 (146)W and trial 2, Pmax = 953.36 (136)W. When compared to the respective NO-STRETCH trials, antagonist static stretching did have a significant effect on Pmax for both the initial (P < 0.01, d = 1.33) and the re-stretching procedures (P < 0.01, d = 1.35). A significant difference was also found between the STRETCH trials (P < 0.01, d = 0.46). The results have practical implications for those involved in upper-body power activities. Specifically, incorporating upper-body antagonist static stretching into pre-performance routines might offer a simple and effective means of enhancing agonist power.

Item Type:	Article
Journal / Publication Title:	International Journal of Sports Science and Coaching
Publisher:	SAGE Publications / Multi-Science Publications
ISSN:	2048-397X
Departments:	Academic Departments > Medical & Sport Sciences (MSS) > Sports and Physical Activity
Depositing User:	Anna Lupton
Date Deposited:	07 Nov 2019 14:40
Last Modified:	13 Jan 2024 10:32
URI:	https://insight.cumbria.ac.uk/id/eprint/5216

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