Examination of Hamstring Flexibility and Maximal Sprint Speed

Abstract Purpose Maximal sprinting ability is a highly sought after trait in athletes. Many studies have been performed in an effort to determine the factors of sprinting ability, such as the vertical jump, squatting ability, and others. However, very limited research has been performed on the relationship between flexibility and maximal sprinting speed. The vast majority of research done involving hamstring flexibility and performance involves the acute effects of stretching on performance, or the relationship between flexibility and injury prevention. The purpose of this study is to determine the relationship between hamstring flexibility and maximal sprinting speed. Methods This study involved 65 participants, all of whom were 18-24-year-old men from the University of Akron football team. The participants underwent testing in the 40-Yard Dash (maximal sprint speed), the Sit-and-Reach (hamstring flexibility), the vertical jump, and a body composition analysis. Linear regression analysis was performed between each test and the flexibility measurements. Results There was a significant no correlation relationship between the 40-Yard dash and the Sit-and-Reach (p \u3c 0.001, R2 = 0.111). Conclusion This study found that there is no relationship between maximal sprint speed and hamstring flexibility