Acute effects of inter-set static stretching on hamstring strength and range of motion (ROM)
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Purpose: Inter-set stretching has been proposed as a strategy to influence subsequent performance during resistance exercise, yet its acute effects remain controversial. While some studies suggest potential benefits for flexibility and range of motion (ROM), concerns persist regarding possible impairments in strength output and total training volume (TTV). Methods: Seventeen trained males were randomly assigned to one of two protocols: (a) inter-set static stretching (ISS); and (b) no stretching between sets (WSS). The ISS protocol involved passive hip flexion with the knee extended on the dominant lower limb, consisting of four 45-second sets at maximum perceived discomfort level, performed between exercise sets. In the WSS protocol, participants rested passively between sets without stretching. Results: A main effect for condition was found in the number of repetitions (p = .006), indicating that the ISS protocol led to fewer repetitions compared to the WSS protocol. A main effect for sets was also observed (p ≤ .0001), showing a progressive decrease in repetitions across sets in both protocols. Regarding TTV, the WSS protocol resulted in higher values than the ISS protocol (p = .01), although the effect size was moderate and non-statistically significant (d = .55; CI95% = -0.15 to 1.22). Both protocols promoted a significant acute increase in ROM, with a greater improvement observed in the ISS protocol (p < .05). Conclusion: These results suggest that while ISS may slightly reduce performance measures such as volume and repetition count, it can be effective strategy for enhance range of motion in trained individuals.
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