A Comparison of Stretching on a PNF Diagonal using Hold-Relax Technique with Single Plane Passive Stretching for Increasing Adductor Flexibility

To determine whether a single session of PNF stretching using the hold-relax technique on the diagonal of extension, abduction and internal rotation was more effective at increasing hip adductor flexibility than passive stretching in a horizontal plane in sedentary individuals.

A single blind cross-over design, with the evaluator being blinded was utilized. A total of sixty-four students from the University of the West Indies participated in the study. Each subject had one leg exposed to three passive stretches with a 10 second hold for each stretch. The other leg was placed on the PNF diagonal of extension, abduction, and internal rotation and three repetitions of the hold-relax technique applied. Abduction range of motion was measured using standard goniometric procedures before and immediately after stretching.

Both PNF and static stretching produced a significant increase in flexibility (mean change of 9.95 º ± 6.7º and 10.9º± 6.8º respectively, p < 0.001). The results of the t -test showed no difference in the mean change in flexibility when the two techniques were compared (p = 0.41).

Passive stretching in a horizontal plane and PNF stretching using the hold-relax technique on a diagonal are equally effective at increasing adductor flexibility in sedentary individuals.