Acute effects of static and dynamic stretching exercises on lower extremity strength performances in taekwondo athletes

Aim: The aim of this study is to investigate acute effects of static and dynamic stretching exercises on lower extremity strength performances in Taekwondo Athletes. Materials and Methods: 14 male licenced-Taekwondo athletes between 18-22 ages joined to the study by filling "Informed Consent Form" in Isparta. Isokinetic tests were applied totally 6 days containing at least 48 hour-rest intervals. The athletes were subjected to 5 min submaximal warm-up exercise with the ergometric bicycle before isokinetic pre-tests. Our athletes already randomed systematically, passed the final test by applying the nostretching (NS), static (SS) and dynamic stretching (DS) protocols after the pre-test. 3 submaximal trials preceded 3 maximal efforts with dominant leg in the tests of 60 and 180°/sec. 2-minute rest was allowed between each angular speed. Ahtletes' all pre and post-test "Peak Torque" values were recorded in "Newtonmeter (Nm)". Statistical analysis of datas were done at SPSS 20.0 statistics program by using "Paired t Test" for comparison of pre and post-test values according to each stretching protocols; were done by using "Repeated-Measures ANOVA" for comparison of stretching protocols between them. Datas were evaluated according to "0,05" significance level. Findings: Comparison of isokinetic pre and post-test values for knee and ankle applied to Taekwondo athletes in velocities of 60 and 180°/sec, there was no difference statistically (p>0,05). Similarly, there was no difference in the comparison results of stretching protocols between them in each velocity (p>0,05). Results: As a result, according to findings in our study and the other supported researches, the opinion is shared as the reasons for lack of changes in isokinetic strength parameters that applying more number of sets and stretching time than suggested in literature in sports activities create neurogenic inhibition in static stretching exercises; may cause fatigue in dynamic stretching exercises. Additionally, it can be thought that these long-term exercises do not increase enough rate in muscle blood supply, although they affect minimally the strength performance. It is suggested that stretching protocols applied in warm-up section should be done according to the requirements of the relevant branch as Teakwondo in which minor positive increases and differences in strength and performance affected the competition results. Considering that all the parameters in our study associated with strength performance, it is recommended for positive increment of strength in Taekwondo that sport scientists should performe the stretching protocols before competition which include appropriate number of sets and stretching time; take into account of mechanic and neuromuscular factors. Key Words: Static Stretching, Dynamic Stretching, Taekwondo, Strength.