| Abstrakt: |
In the literature, a limited number of trials have examined the long-term effects of static (SS) and dynamic stretching (DS) protocols on the physical performance, while their results appear to be ambiguous. Therefore, the aim of the study was to examine the longitudinal effects of a SS and a DS protocol, on the jumping ability of recreational male volleyball athletes. A total of 50 adult male recreational volleyball players, apparently healthy volunteers, were randomized into three intervention groups: a) the first implemented a SS protocol 3 times/week, b) the second followed a DS program in the same frequency, while c) the third one formed the control group, refraining from practicing in any stretching exercises. All groups participated in a 6-week intervention and the baseline and final countermovement jump field tests. Eight participants were excluded from the final sample due to injuries or other problems, thus, the final sample consisted of 42 athletes (14 in each group). Greater post-test jump heights were noted in the DS group (p≥0.025, d=0.678) in comparison to the pre-test values. A large height × group interaction was observed in the jump tests (p≥0.028, X²=0.651), with the DS group values being greater post-intervention in comparison to the baseline, while no differences were pointed out in either the SS or the control group. Therefore, the implementation of a 6-week DS intervention, at a frequency of 3 sessions/week, is efficient in improving the countermovement jump height of recreational male volleyball players, under the same circumstances, as determined in the protocol herein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
