Stretching for Vertical Jump Height

Overseen By Philip Chilibeck, PhD

Age: < 18

Sex: Any

Trial Phase: Academic

Sponsor: University of Saskatchewan

Disqualifiers: Current or past injuries, others

No Placebo Group All trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)

Compensation: Varies

Number of Visits: 5

Duration: 8 weeks

40 Participants Needed

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

The study involves comparison of an 8-week plantar flexor stretching program to a shoulder stretching program for improving vertical jump performance in adolescent athletes.

Do I need to stop taking my current medications for the trial?

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.

What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Stretching for improving vertical jump height?

Research shows that intermittent static stretching can improve vertical jump height in flexibility-trained athletes, while continuous static stretching may decrease it. Additionally, dynamic stretching has been found to enhance vertical jump performance, especially when used as part of a warm-up. ^{1 2 3 4 5}

Is stretching generally safe for humans?

Stretching is generally considered safe for humans, with some studies suggesting it may reduce the incidence of muscle strains. However, it can temporarily decrease muscle strength and power, so it's important to combine it with other warm-up activities. ^{6 7 8 9 10}

How does the treatment of stretching differ from other treatments for improving vertical jump height?

Stretching, particularly dynamic stretching, is unique in its ability to acutely enhance vertical jump performance by increasing flexibility and muscle readiness, unlike static stretching which can temporarily decrease performance. Dynamic stretching involves active movements that prepare muscles for explosive actions, making it more effective for immediate performance improvements compared to other stretching methods. ^{1 4 11 12 13}

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for adolescent athletes who are actively participating in a sports training program. It's not suitable for those with current or past injuries that could impact their ability to jump or stretch the plantar flexors (muscles of the lower leg) or shoulder joint.

Inclusion Criteria

Currently involved in a sport training program

Exclusion Criteria

I have injuries that could affect my ability to jump or stretch.

Timeline

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

2-4 weeks

Treatment

Participants undergo an 8-week stretching program focusing on either plantar flexor or shoulder flexibility

8 weeks

5 sessions per week

Follow-up

Participants are monitored for changes in vertical jump performance and flexibility

4 weeks

Treatment Details

Interventions

• Stretching

Trial Overview The study tests whether an 8-week stretching program focused on the plantar flexor muscles can improve vertical jump height compared to a shoulder stretching routine among young athletes.

Participant Groups

Group I: Plantar flexor stretching Experimental Treatment 1 Intervention

Flexibility training (stretching) of the muscles at the back of the lower leg

Group II: Shoulder stretching Active Control 1 Intervention

Flexibility training (stretching) of the muscles surrounding the shoulder joint

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

University of Saskatchewan

Lead Sponsor

Trials

261

Recruited

156,000+

References

1. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Intermittent but Not Continuous Static Stretching Improves Subsequent Vertical Jump Performance in Flexibility-Trained Athletes. [2019]

2. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Time course of changes in vertical-jumping ability after static stretching. [2019]

3. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Acute effects of a warm-up including active, passive, and dynamic stretching on vertical jump performance. [2022]

4. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Acute Effect of Foam Rolling and Dynamic Stretching on Flexibility and Jump Height. [2022]

5. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Effect of static and dynamic stretching on the diurnal variations of jump performance in soccer players. [2022]

6. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

An examination of preactivity and postactivity stretching practices of crosscountry and track and field distance coaches. [2016]

7. Denmark pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

To stretch or not to stretch: the role of stretching in injury prevention and performance. [2022]

8. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Effect of stretching on sport injury risk: a review. [2019]

9. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Acute effects of static and ballistic stretching on measures of strength and power. [2016]

10. England pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Static stretching does not alter pre and post-landing muscle activation. [2021]

11. England pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Acute effects of different volumes of dynamic stretching on vertical jump performance, flexibility and muscular endurance. [2022]

12. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

The effect of static, ballistic, and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching on vertical jump performance. [2019]

13. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

The impact of different warm-up protocols on vertical jump performance in male collegiate athletes. [2016]