Effect of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation on flexibility performance among male university-level handball players

To optimize performance and reduce injury risk, this study evaluated the impact of a six-week Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) program compared to static stretching on the shoulder and hamstring flexibility of sixteen male university handball players. Utilizing techniques such as contract-relax and contract-relax antagonist-contract three times weekly, researchers measured improvements via goniometer assessments and sit-and-reach tests. The results aim to establish evidence-based, sport-specific flexibility protocols to address the gaps in traditional training methods for elite handball athletes.