Movement Preps Part I: Basic Dynamic Stretching Exercises

Stretching is considered an essential component of an athlete`s warm up. However, most studies concerning the effect of static stretching on performance (e.g. isometric and isokinetic force, jump height, sprint time, muscle activation, reaction as well as movement time and balance) and injury risk have been inconclusive, and often shown a significant negative effect, even when combined with an aerobic warm up. By contrast, dynamic stretching or also often called movement preparation has been demonstrated to have a significant positive effect or, at least, no adverse effect on subsequent performance (Chaouachi et al., 2009 & Chtourou et al., 2013).