Celebration of Scholars
Dynamic vs Static Stretching in the Improvement of Active Range of Motion
Name:
William Decraene
Major: Athletic Training
Hometown: Lisle, IL
Faculty Sponsor:
Other Sponsors:
Type of research: Course project
Name:
Ashley Kudla
Major: Athletic Training
Hometown: Barrington, IL
Faculty Sponsor:
Other Sponsors:
Type of research: Course project
Name:
Brandi Peters
Major: Athletic Training
Hometown: Clifton, IL
Faculty Sponsor:
Other Sponsors:
Type of research: Course project
Abstract
Poor flexibility has been often
cited as a factor in athletic related injuries to the lower extremities.
Flexibility is defined as the measure of range of motion (ROM) around a joint
or series of joints. The goal of this experiment was to determine whether
static or dynamic stretching is more effective in increasing active ROM (AROM)
– the ROM of a joint as it is consciously moved by the individual. By actively
moving in or out of a stretched position, dynamic stretching uses the momentum
of a moving body or limb in an attempt to force it beyond its normal range of
motion. In contrast, static stretching is slow or passive stretching held for
20-30 seconds. Ten subjects were randomly placed into one of two groups: Static
or Dynamic. Flexion/ extension of the
hip and knee and dorsiflexion/ plantar flexion of the ankle were measured using
a goniometer. Baseline measurements were
established for each participant.
Participants then performed the assigned stretch routine for 12 minutes
. AROM measurements were re-taken
immediately following the assigned routines.
Results showed that dynamic stretching produced a greater average increase of AROM of the hip by 15.8°, 5.4° in
the knee, and 19° in the ankle. Therefore, we conclude that by engaging in
dynamic stretching, individuals may
decrease their risk of lower extremity injury.