COMPARISON OF ACTIVE AND PASSIVE STATIC STRETCHING IN DELAYED ONSET MUSCLE SRENESS OF RECREACTIONAL BODY BUILDERS

Abstract

Background: Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) frequently occurs after unaccustomed or eccentric exercise, leading to micro tears in muscle myofibrils, localized inflammation, and a temporary reduction in athletic performance.

Objective: This study aimed to determine and compare the effects of active static stretching versus passive static stretching on managing DOMS and range of motion (ROM) among recreational bodybuilders.

Methodology: A Randomized Controlled Trial was designed involving 144 male recreational bodybuilders aged 18–40 in Rawalpindi and Islamabad (pp. 10-11). Participants were equally allocated into two groups via the envelope randomization method (pp. 10-11). Group 1 received passive static stretching administered by a physiotherapist, while Group 2 performed active static stretching under guidance (p. 11). Outcome measures including the Numeric Rating Pain Scale (NPRS), Likert Muscle Soreness Scale, and goniometric ROM (shoulder, elbow, wrist) were assessed before the intervention, immediately after, and at 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 hours post-exercise.

Results: Data analysis using non-parametric statistical tests (Mann-Whitney U and Wilcoxon tests) showed a significant gradual reduction in pain scores over 120 hours for both intervention groups (pp. 17-18, 43). Both active and passive stretching methods demonstrated similar overall effectiveness in improving upper extremity range of motion, with minor specific variations noted in shoulder extension at 72 and 96 hours favoring the passive group.

Conclusion: Both active and passive static stretching are equally effective treatment strategies for accelerating recovery, mitigating pain, and improving range of motion in recreational bodybuilders experiencing DOMS (p. 43).