Effects of post-exercise stretching versus no stretching on lower limb muscle recovery and performance: a meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Post-exercise stretching is widely employed in athletic and rehabilitation settings to promote recovery and performance. However, its physiological benefits remain controversial due to inconsistent findings across randomized controlled trials.

Objective

To evaluate the effects of post-exercise stretching compared to no stretching on lower limb muscle recovery and performance indicators, including muscle soreness, strength, flexibility, performance, and pain threshold.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted in eight databases up to 20 July 2025. Randomized controlled trials, controlled clinical trials, and crossover trials comparing post-exercise stretching (static, dynamic, or PNF) with no stretching were included. Data were synthesized using random-effe

SUBMITTER: Zhang P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12521117 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature