Impacts of the PNF Technique on Flexibility and Strength in Martial Arts Athletes

Abstract

Introduction: Joint flexibility and muscle strength play a vital role in the training process of martial arts athletes. The proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) technique encourages the neural receptors, through the application of manual resistances, in the gain of functional range of motion and stability to its patients. It is believed that this technique can be adapted to the sports environment. Objective: Evaluate the impact of stretching using the PNF technique on martial arts athletes’ flexibility and muscle strength. Methods: Through a controlled experiment, 100 martial arts athletes, without significant differences, were selected as experimental subjects, and randomly divided into two groups for a 4-week experiment. The experimental group added a protocol with PNF stretching exercises in the training, while the control group performed the usual training without interventions. Indicators of flexibility, functional activities, and strength were measured before and after the intervention, compared, and statistically analyzed. Results: Joint flexibility with the shoulder rotation test evolved from 21.88±5.71 to 19.22±5.94, and the left and right division was from 16.90±5.36 to 10.57±3.75; as for muscle strength, the flexor peak moment elevated from 210.36±51.18 to 251.37± 45.72, and flexor power had a gain from 111.76±30.63 to 135.20±2,.42. The extensor peak moment also showed expressive evolutions from 179.47±43.96 to 221.52±33.60. Conclusion: The PNF stretching exercise technique effectively optimizes martial arts athletes’ joint flexibility and muscle strength. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment outcomes.