RANGE OF MOTION AND STRETCH TOLERANCE AFTER ECCENTRIC STRENGTH TRAINING

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine whether eccentric strength training alone and eccentric strength training combined with flexibility training of hamstring muscles can alter the maximum range of motion (ROM) and the stretch tolerance (ST) in the human hamstring muscles. Thirteen male (physical education students) performed strength eccentric training (Ecc) on one leg and eccentric and flexibility training (Ecc_F) on their other leg for 6 weeks; nine other subjects, not involved in any of these exercise performed served as a control group (CON). Strength and flexibility tests were administered before and after the training period. After 6 weeks of training, a significant difference between pretest and posttest was found for the one maximum repetition (1- RM) test on the Ecc and Ecc_F (p<0,05). The maximum ROM and ST increased significantly only in the Ecc_F group (p<0,05 for both). The results showed that the eccentric training alone was not able to enhance flexibility and modify stretch tolerance in hamstring muscle.