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Related Concept Videos

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Apr 11, 2026

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Neural and Mechanical Adaptations During Static Stretching With Different Amplitudes.

Denis César Leite Vieira1,2, Martim Bottaro2, Marion Hitier1

  • 1Université Bourgogne Europe, INSERM, CAPS UMR 1093, Dijon, France.

The European Journal of Neuroscience
|April 10, 2026
PubMed
Summary

Static stretching amplitude influences neural and mechanical responses. While both submaximal and supramaximal stretching reduced strength, supramaximal stretching yielded greater improvements in flexibility and spinal excitability.

Keywords:
muscle performanceneural adaptationsperipheral adaptationsstretchwarm‐up

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Area of Science:

  • Neuromechanics
  • Exercise Physiology
  • Biomedical Engineering

Background:

  • Prolonged static stretching is common, but its effects on neural and mechanical properties at different amplitudes remain unclear.
  • Understanding these adaptations is crucial for optimizing stretching protocols for performance and injury prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the neural and mechanical responses to prolonged static stretching at submaximal and supramaximal amplitudes.
  • To examine the progression of these responses during stretching and their immediate post-stretching alterations.

Main Methods:

  • Thirteen healthy adults underwent three randomized sessions: control, 15-min submaximal stretching (ROMmax-5°), and 15-min supramaximal stretching (ROMmax+5°).
  • Measurements included spinal excitability (Hmax/Mmax), evoked contractile properties (PTT), voluntary strength (MVC), passive torque, and maximal range of motion (ROMmax).
  • Assessments were taken at baseline, during stretching (0, 5, 10, 15 min), and immediately post-stretching.

Main Results:

  • Spinal excitability initially decreased then progressively increased during stretching, with greater increases in the supramaximal condition.
  • Passive torque increased, but declined and stabilized earlier in the supramaximal group.
  • Both stretching protocols reduced MVC and PTT, while improving ROMmax, with slightly greater ROMmax gains in the supramaximal condition.

Conclusions:

  • Static stretching amplitude significantly modulates neuromechanical adaptations.
  • Both stretching protocols enhance flexibility but reduce voluntary strength.
  • Supramaximal stretching may offer slightly greater range of motion improvements, alongside distinct spinal excitability patterns.