Passive muscle stretching impairs rapid force production and neuromuscular function in human plantar flexors

Purpose We examined the effect of muscle stretching on the ability to produce rapid torque and the mechanisms underpinning the changes. Methods Eighteen men performed three conditions: (1) continuous stretch (1 set of 5 min), (2) intermittent stretch (5 sets of 1 min with 15-s inter-stretch interval), and (3) control. Isometric plantar flexor rate of torque development was measured during explosive maximal voluntary contractions (MVC) in the...