Comparison of different flexibility training methods and specific warm-up on repetition maximum volume in lower limb exercises with female jazz dancers

Introduction: Some evidences show that stretching exercises prior to a strength training session can result in decrease of performance. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the acute effect of different stretching protocols in the lower limbs using the sum of repetition maximum (RM) performed before a strength training session. Material and methods: The sample consisted of ten female jazz dancers (age: 24.7 ± 7.84 years), with no experience in strength training. Six visits were conducted in which participants were subjected to 10-RM test, 10-RM retest and four different warm-up protocols: specific warm-up, static stretching, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation and ballistic stretching. Results: The results obtained in this study showed that in the squat exercise in the Smith machine, the ballistic stretching protocol had a significantly higher volume compared to all other protocols, while the PNF had a significantly higher volume in comparison with the specific warm-up protocol and static stretching protocol (p < 0.05). However, in the leg extension, there were no significant differences in the total volume of maximum repetitions between protocols. Conclusion: Ballistic stretching was the most effective protocol to increase the levels of muscle strength in female jazz dancers