Effects of Dynamic Warm-up Programs Including Self-Myofascial Relexation on Soft Tissue Stiffness and Exercise Performance

Abstract

PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate the effect of dynamic warm-up (DW), including DW and self-myofascial release (SMFR), on soft tissue stiffness and exercise performance. METHODS Eight adult men participated in this study. The procedure was conducted twice every 2 weeks. Soft tissue stiffness measurements and exercise performance were performed as a pre-post-test. DW only and DW with SMFR were performed as an exercise intervention for the two groups, respectively. RESULTS In the group conducted solely by DW, the stiffness of the gastrocnemius and rectus femoris muscles increased (p<.05), and in the DW group including SMFR, the stiffness of the rectus femoris muscle (p<.01) and biceps femoris muscle increased (p<.05). The Achilles and patellar tendon showed no significant changes in either group. A significant increase was observed in both the DW group and the DW group containing SMFR in the 30 m sprint (p<.01). The vertical jump (VJ) showed no significant change in both groups. CONCLUSIONS Therefore, DW, including DW with SMFR, increased muscle stiffness, specifically through a 30-m sprint. In a follow-up study, it is considered necessary to investigate the effect of the VJ through the development of a DW program that changes the stiffness of tendons.

Keywords

• dynamic warm-up
• self-myofascial release
• stiffness
• vertical jump
• sprint