Effect of Active Dynamic Versus Passive Static Stretching on Hamstring Muscle Tightness in Healthy Female Students: A Randomized Trial Study

For decades, static stretching has been the standard benchmark for training programs, because it has been shown to increase flexibility compared with other methods of stretching. The current study investigated and compared the effects of active dynamic stretching and passive static stretching on hamstring tightness. For this experiment, 64 female students were enrolled and randomly assigned to active dynamic or passive static stretching groups (n = 32 each). The first and second experimental groups were trained with repetitive dynamic stretching and static stretching exercises, respectively. Exercises were performed 10 times per limb, 3 times per day, 5 days per week for 4 weeks. Hamstring muscle length measurements were repeated in weeks 2 and 4. Statistical analysis of the results was performed by t-test and repeated measures ANOVA using SPSS 15. Both experimental groups showed significant improvements in the active knee extension range of motion during the intervention (P < 0.001). However, active stretching showed better results and had a greater effect on range of motion in comparison with static stretching. Active dynamic training can be considered a suitable method for increasing the flexibility of the hamstring muscle and, consequently, reducing the complications and problems associated with hamstring tightness.