The effect of self myofascial release and static stretching on the antagonist muscles before agonist performance

Objective: the aim of this study was to compare differences in volume load, total repetition performed and rating of perceived exertion between static stretching and self-myofascial release on antagonist muscles. Methods: Eighteen recreationally trained men (23.4 ± 3.3 years; 80.7 ± 11.1 kg; 1.76 ± 0.06 cm) performed 10 repetitions maximum test and retest in the leg extension exercise on the first two visits. Then, three experimental sessions were conducted in a random order, in which two consisted of self-myofascial release and static stretching on hamstrings, and the other was used as a control. Results: significant higher repetitions were performed in the third set of static stretching when compared to control protocol. Additionally, significant reductions in total repetitions performed were observed only in the control session. No significant differences were noticed in the volume load of leg extension and rating of perceived exertion between protocols. Conclusion: self-myofascial release and static stretching performed before a session in the antagonist muscles can maintain repetitions performance by optimizing recovery between sets and reducing fatigue of agonist muscle.