silveraw
Level 9 Valued Member
Can stretching directly cause muscle growth?
A recent study by Warneke et al is the first great proof-of-concept study investigating the direct impact of stretching on muscle growth.
www.strongerbyscience.com
An interesting look at the nuances of stretching and hypertrophy and strength. Seems like Pavel and Marty Gallagher were on to something with the intraset stretches for the guns. Also there is a study in there looking at intense stretching post workout and its effect on hypertrophy that seems both brutal and interesting. An hour of intense calf stretching (via orthotic device) post workout resulted in some hypertrophy gains.
I also found this quote to be very interesting:
Similarly, intense, long-duration stretching right before an exercise test may reduce force and power output, but longitudinal stretching interventions may actually increase strength over time (study).