A Survey of Static and Dynamic Stretching Protocol

Abstract

[Purpose] The purpose of the present study was to investigate static stretching and dynamic stretching protocol.

[Methods] 138 coaches of 21 different sports completed a self-reporting questionnaire. The questionnaire was split into four sections and contained fixed-response questions. Section One identified participant demographics. The second and third sections required the participants to detail the static and dynamic stretching they used. The fourth section of the questionnaire identified how participants learned about stretching.

[Results] There were 126 coaches using static or dynamic stretching, while 12 coaches did not. Thirty-nine coaches used only static stretching, 10 coaches used only dynamic stretching, and 77 coaches used both types of stretching. The purposes of static stretching were to increase flexibility and to prevent injuries. The purposes of dynamic stretching were improvement of performance and prevention of injuries. The duration of one bout of static and dynamic stretching in a warm-up were 21.8 ± 13.2 and 22.1 ± 16.2 seconds, respectively. A common way to learn about stretching was participation in training sessions.

[Discussion] Coaches should use SS for a greater length of time to achieve their purposes. The results of the present study showed gaps between evidence and practice.