Stretching Exercise and Soccer: Effect of Stretching on Range of Motion in the Lower Extremity in Connection with Soccer Training

Abstract

Forty-eight players from four senior, male soccer teams were tested for ranges of motion (ROM) in the lower extremity before, immediately after, and 24 h after different forms of soccer training.

The players were tested after regular soccer training (A), after soccer training wih contract-relax stretching prior to beginning the session (B), and after soccer training with stretching added at the end of the program (C). Each training session lasted 1.5 h.

In group A all six ROMs were decreased 24 h after the training. In group B the only change in ROM noted was an increase in knee flexion directly after the training. In group C there was an increase in hip extension, hip flexion, and knee flexion directly after the training.

Key words

flexibility - muscles - soccer - sports - streching