Abstract
[Purpose] The aim of present study was to compare the effectiveness of modified
hold-relax stretching and static stretching in improving the hamstring muscle flexibility.
[Subjects and Methods] Forty-five male subjects with hamstring tightness were included in
this study. The subjects were randomly placed into three groups: the modified hold-relax
stretching, static stretching and control groups. The modified hold-relax stretching group
performed 7 seconds of isometric contraction and then relaxed for 5 seconds, and this was
repeated five times daily for five consecutive days. The static stretching group received
10 minutes of static stretching with the help of a pulley and weight system for five
consecutive days. The control group received only moist heat for 20 minutes for five
consecutive days. A baseline reading of passive knee extension (PKE) was taken prior to
the intervention; rest measurements were taken immediate post intervention on day 1, day
3, day 5, and after a 1 week follow-up, i.e., at the 12th day. [Results] On comparing the
baseline readings of passive knee extension (PKE), there was no difference noted between
the three groups. On comparing the posttest readings on day 5 between the 3 groups, a
significant difference was noted. However, post hoc analysis revealed an insignificant
difference between the modified hold-relax stretching and static stretching groups. There
was a significant difference between the static stretching and control groups and between
the modified hold-relax stretching and control groups. [Conclusion] The results of this
study indicate that both the modified hold-relax stretching technique and static
stretching are equally effective, as there was no significant difference in improving the
hamstring muscle flexibility between the two groups.