The effect of static and dynamic stretching exercises on leg strength and vertical jump performance

This study aims to evaluate the effects of static and dynamic stretching methods on leg strength and vertical jump performance, determining which stretching technique may be more effective for these two parameters. In this experimental research design, a G*Power power analysis was used to determine the sample size, and a total of 64 participants were included in the study. Data collection involved the use of the Tanita BC 418 Segmental scale for body weight and body mass index measurements, the Mesilife Mst-200 stadiometer for height measurement, the ISOMED 2000 isokinetic dynamometer for leg strength measurement, and the Seven Electronics SE-167 device for vertical jump measurements. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS 26 software, and a paired samples t-test was employed to analyze normally distributed data. According to the findings, a significant difference in favor of dynamic stretching was observed in the strength and flexibility parameters of the hamstring and quadriceps muscles during 30°/s angular velocity for the dominant leg, 240°/s angular velocity for the dominant leg, and 240°/s angular velocity for the non dominant leg measurements. No significant difference was found between static and dynamic stretching in the leg strength of the hamstring and quadriceps during 30°/s angular velocity for the non dominant leg, while dynamic stretching yielded higher performance in flexibility parameters. Furthermore, dynamic stretching was found to be more effective than static stretching in enhancing vertical jump performance. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the importance of incorporating dynamic stretching exercises into athletes' training programs for performance enhancement and minimizing the risk of injury. Dynamic stretching exerts superior effects on strength and flexibility, optimizing athletes' performance, particularly in high-speed exercises and explosive movements. Keywords: Leg strength, vertical jump, dynamic stretching, static stretching.