Static Stretching Research Paper

Static stretching is often referred to as slow or passive stretching. This slow, deliberate movement is used to achieve a lengthening of muscle that’ been stimulated. There has been much research done, exploring the effects of static stretching on performance of athletes. The results of these studies tend to point towards a positive reduction in injury. The ability to lengthen your muscle without damage may allow the athlete to assume an unusual position of which would have regularly resulted in injury. Despite being able to reduce the risk of injury, static stretching has also proven to decrease strength. Static stretching can reduce the responsiveness between your muscles, tendons and joints, which results in less resistance during a contraction. This action results in a decreased capacity for you to …show more content…
It happens at random moments, however they are usually preventable. We can reduce the risk of these incidences by incorporating static stretching into our exercise routine on a regular basis. Static stretching elongates your soft tissues and muscles which increases your range of motion limitations. These stretches should be performed post-exercise as they prevent your muscles from shrinking and help retain the flexibility you lost during your workout. They also allow your muscles to rebuild themselves and grow, as well as repair any damage done during exercise. Static stretching is beneficial post-workout, however strength performance has proven to decrease when preceded by static stretching. Performing static stretches before your workout reduces the responsiveness between your muscles, making them less resistant during contraction and consequently resulting in a decreased capacity for you to produce force. Therefore it is recommended that you perform static stretching as part of your cool down routine rather then before exercise as you don’t want to hinder your ability to optimize your