The Impact of Neuromobilization and Static Stretching on Countermovement Jump Height in Young, Physically Active Men

Background/Objectives: A review of the current literature does not provide a clear answer regarding the effectiveness of incorporating stretching exercises into warm-ups on performance and improving motor skills. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of a single application of sciatic neuromobilization and static stretching of the hamstring muscles on lower limb explosiveness, expressed by height of countermovement jump (CMJ) test. Methods: The study included 39 physically active men aged 20 to 26 (mean age 21.4 ± 2.2 years). Participants were randomly divided into 3 groups: 1. neuromobilization, 2. static stretching, 3. control group-no intervention. Immediately after the intervention, a CMJ test was performed. Jump height was measured at four timings: 1. before stretching (Pre), 2. immediately after (Post_0), 3. after 5 min (Post_5), 4. and after 10 min (Post_10). Results: Statistical analysis revealed a statistically significant difference in CMJ height between the neuromobilization and static groups and between the neuromobilization and control groups (p < 0.001). No statistically significant differences were observed between the static and control groups (p = 0.073). Post hoc comparisons revealed substantially higher vertical jump height in the neuromobilization group compared with the static group. Hedges' g indicated a very large magnitude of effect, with values ranging from 3.73 to above 4.10. Conclusions: Neuromobilization induces short-term activation of lower limb muscles, resulting in increased explosive strength, whereas hamstrings static stretching of them does not positively impact short-term power generation.