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

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.

Does Stretching Training Influence Muscular Strength? A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis and Meta-Regression

“…Furthermore, the use of different assessment methods to evaluate strength is an important aspect to consider when investigating the effects on strength gains (10). In addition, recent studies have observed that muscle activation and performance tend to increase subsequently to a stretch applied to antagonist muscles of the tested one (17,57,78); in opposition to what is observed for stretching the agonist muscle (12). It would be interesting if future studies consider exploring RT plus stretch of the antagonist muscle group on muscular adaptations.…”