The Effect of Static Stretching Before Exercise on Physical Performance: A Literature Review

Abstract

Background

Various studies have explored the effects of static stretching on physical performance, but the results are still mixed. Some studies indicate that static stretching can decrease several aspects of performance such as speed, agility, and balance, while others have found that static stretching can increase muscle torque and movement economy in endurance activities.

Objectives

Therefore, this study aims to review the scientific literature regarding the effect of static stretching before exercise on physical performance.

Methods

The literature search was conducted using the Harzing Publish or Perish application following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. After applying exclusion criteria, only nine articles met the criteria and are described further.

Results

The results indicate that static stretching before exercise can have a positive impact on muscle torque and movement economy, but is less beneficial for sports that require speed and rapid changes of direction. The effects of static stretching are highly dependent on the duration, intensity, and type of exercise performed afterward. Therefore, the choice of warm-up method must be tailored to the specific needs of the individual or the sport being pursued

Conclusion

Some limitations in this review include the limited number of studies and methodological variations in the studies analyzed. Further studies using meta-analysis and literature mapping (bibliometric and scientometric) approaches are needed to understand research trends in this field and develop recommendations based on scientific evidence regarding the application of static extension in various sports.