Acute Effect of Static and Dynamic Stretching on Sprint Performance in Adolescent Basketball Players

The purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of static and dynamic stretching on running velocity in adolescent basketball players. Fifteen adolescent male basketball players (age 14,93±0,25y) volunteered to participate in this study. The dynamic and static protocols were performed randomly in different days, a week apart. The programs included stretching exercises for knee extensors, knee flexors and plantar flexors. Three 15-second sets of each exercise were performed till the limit of the muscle pain and a 15-second rest was allowed between exercises. Then the 30m-sprint (3x10m) was performed in the basketball court using an electronic chronometer, whistle for indoor use, tape measure and adhesive tape. The joint mobility of the low limbs improved after both stretching protocols. Statistical analysis revealed a shorter time of 30 meter sprint after the dynamic stretching program compared to the static one (p<.05). Thus, it can be concluded that coaches should not use static stretching exercises because, according to the present results, they cause a reduction of running velocity. As it is not well documented which factors negatively affect speed production, further research is needed in order the responsible mechanisms to be determined.