Optimize The Potential of Static Stretching

Old school against the joint stretching, known as static stretching, has been practiced for many years to increase mobility and reduce the risk of injury. Unfortunately, this technique can also decrease muscle performance. A study published in The Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness suggests there may be a way to reduce the undesirable effects.
 
Fifteen college students performed a 2-part warm up or a 3-part warm up. Both warm ups included low intensity aerobic and sport specific exercise. The 3-part warm up also included static stretching. Tests performed afterward showed no differences in peak torque, mean power or total work. So sport specific movements might help reduce the negative effects of static stretching.