The acute effects of self-myofascial release and static stretching on hamstring flexibility / Syahizwan Tahar

Introduction: Flexibility is the term commonly used to refer to the movement
of a joint from full flexion to full extension (full range-of-motion). Commonly, people
are performing stretching to increase flexibility, range-of-motion (ROM) and reduce
injury. Objective: The purpose of the study was to compare the acute effects of Self Myofascial
Release (SMR) and Static Stretching (SS) on hamstring flexibility.
Methodology: Eighteen male and twelve female subjects were tested under two
flexibility treatment, including I) Myo-Fascial Release, and having a washout period
for ten days then continues with 2) static stretching. Following both conditions,
subjects were tested for flexibility with sit and reach test. The data were analyzed using
SPSS statistical software. Paired sample t-test was used to assess the differences
between SMR and SS. Result: There were no significant difference between SMR and
static stretching (p = 0.956). Therefore, no such difference in flexibility performance
increment. Conclusion: As a conclusion, SMR and static stretching having the same
positive effects on hamstring flexibility.