Combination effect of core stability exercise and contract relax exercise on hamstring flexibility

Abstract

Hamstring is a muscle group that often has a reduced flexibility compared to other muscle groups. This hamstring flexibility reduction can lead as a low back pain risk factor. Nowadays, the combination effect of core stability and contract relax exercise on hamstring flexibility is still unclear. The aim of this research was to know about this exercise on hamstring flexibility. This research is experimental with 24 subjects of healthy female students who participated in the exercise program for 4 weeks consisting of 3 times per week. Subjects were randomly assigned to one of three groups: (1) core stability-CS (n = 8) (2) core relax-CR(n = 8), (3) core stability combined contract relax-CS + CR(n = 8). The hamstring flexibility was assessed with sit and reach test using the sit and reaches box. The examinations were conducted by observers twice, prior the training program and 2 days after the last session of exercise. 22 subjects were analyzed (CS,n = 7;CR,n = 8;CS + CR,n = 7). The paired t test analysis of each group showed significant CS (p = 0.03), CR (p = 0.00), CS + CR (p = 0.01) in increasing of result sit and reach test was observed. There was a difference between the three groups by the ANOVA test (p = 0.00). This study shows that combination of core stability and contract relax exercises can increase hamstring flexibility.