The acute effects of warm-up, static and dynamic stretching exercises on biceps brachii muscle function in female basketball players

Abstract

Static and dynamic stretching exercises are often used in sports before competition and training sessions. Recent studies have shown different effects of dynamic and static stretching exercises on physical performance capacity. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the acute effect of warm-up, 30s static and dynamic stretching exercises on biceps brachii muscle function. Nine athletes were examined twice in different days: after performing static and dynamic stretching exercise. Isometric maximal voluntary contraction characteristics were measured using dynamometry; muscle tone, elasticity and stiffness characteristics of biceps brachii muscle were measured using myotonometer Myoton-3. All measurements were performed before and after the warm-up (5-min jogging with self-selected speed), immediately after stretching exercise and after 10 min rest. Warm-up did not cause any changes in the isometric maximal voluntary contraction, strength of elbow flexor muscle as well as in muscle tone and elasticity. Static stretching was effective to increase elasticity of biceps brachii muscle, but did not influence the isometric strength characteristics of elbow flexor muscles. Shortening of isometric contraction latency of elbow flexor muscles after dynamic stretching exercise and increase of strength after 10 min rest were noted. Therefore this type of stretching can be recommended to prepare muscles for explosive maximal exercise.