Hamstring Flexibility Can Predict Lower Body Anaerobic Power Production in Recreationally Trained College Males

Abstract

The aim of the present study is to examine the effects of hamstring flexibility on anaerobic power production in recreationally trained college males (n=20) aged 18+ years. A standard sit and reach test was used to determine flexibility levels in the participant’s hamstring muscles. A standard 30 s Wingate test was used to calculate relative anaerobic power produced by the lower extremity. The participant’s fatigue index was also calculated and related to the participant’s hamstring flexibility. Correlation analysis was performed at a statistical significance level of p ≤ 0.05. Sit and reach scores did not significantly predict relative mean power and predict fatigue index (f (1,18)=2.58, p=0.126; (f (1,18)=1.71, p=0.207). However, sit and reach scores significantly predicted peak power (f (1,18)=7.92, p=0.011); relative peak power (f (1,18)=5.31, p=0.033) and mean power (f (1,18)=8.82, p=0.008). In Conclusion, Implementing flexibility specific programs into sports training may have a positive effect on performance in sports involving a power component.