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Updated: Jan 28, 2026

Muscle Imbalances: Testing and Training Functional Eccentric Hamstring Strength in Athletic Populations
Published on: May 1, 2018
Chronic Effects of Static and Dynamic Stretching on Hamstrings Eccentric Strength and Functional Performance: A
Germanna M Barbosa1, Gabriel S Trajano2, Glauko A F Dantas1
1Neuromuscular Performance Analysis Laboratory, Department of Physical Therapy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil; and.
Static stretching significantly reduced hamstring eccentric strength and functional performance in healthy men. Dynamic stretching did not show these negative effects, suggesting caution when using static stretching alone for performance enhancement.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Exercise Physiology
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Stretching is commonly used to improve flexibility and performance.
- The chronic effects of different stretching modalities on muscle strength and functional outcomes require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the chronic effects of static stretching versus dynamic stretching on hamstring eccentric strength and functional performance in active men.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 45 active men divided into control, static stretching, and dynamic stretching groups.
- Stretching protocols were performed three times weekly for 10 sessions.
- Evaluated outcomes included isokinetic knee flexor eccentric peak torque, triple hop distance, and modified 20-m sprint time.
Main Results:
- Static stretching led to a significant decrease in hamstring eccentric peak torque (p ≤ 0.0001) and reduced triple hop distance (p = 0.009).
- Static stretching resulted in lower eccentric torque compared to both control and dynamic stretching groups.
- Dynamic stretching did not produce significant negative effects on eccentric torque or functional performance.
Conclusions:
- Chronic static stretching training can meaningfully reduce hamstring eccentric torque and functional performance.
- Caution is advised when prescribing static stretching in isolation for performance enhancement or injury prevention due to potential negative impacts.
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