Stress as well as relaxation induced influences during a flexibility training

The present study investigated whether a stress as well as a relaxation condition impairs the effectiveness of a flexibility-training. 21 students of sport science (m = 13, w = 8; 23 plus or minus 4 years; 177 plus or minus 7 cm; 76 plus or minus 5 kg; x plus or minus SD) were divided into three groups. All subjects performed three standardized tests on a stretch-equipment in randomized order. The maximum range of motion (ROM), traction-force (TF) and muscle-activity (MA) of the m. biceps femoris were measured. Each course began with a pretest (PT). During PT the tested leg was both maximally stretched and immediately relaxed again for ten times each. After a rest of 15 min, a 15 min lasting treatment (TR) followed equivalent to PT: TR sub(1): stress influence (auditive stroop); TR sub(2): relaxation condition (music); TR sub(3): control (without external influence).