Study note • PMID 15377965
Does stretching improve performance? A systematic and critical review of the literature.
How to use this page
This note summarizes one study record. Check the participants, methods, results, and limitations before applying it to training.
- • Design signal: systematic review / meta-analysis.
- • Population relevance: mixed/unclear athlete specificity.
- • Consistency: synthesis evidence present.
- • Practical recommendation depends on tolerance, context, and whether it protects training consistency.
ELI5
In plain language
The purpose of this article was to evaluate the clinical and basic science evidence surrounding the hypothesis that stretching improves performance. (systematic review / meta-analysis; participants).
In this systematic review / meta-analysis, the abstract suggests a positive relationship with Running economy. Treat this as a signal, not a guarantee; confirm methods and context in the full paper.
Takeaways
What the abstract suggests
- • Study question: The purpose of this article was to evaluate the clinical and basic science evidence surrounding the hypothesis that stretching improves performance.
- • In this systematic review / meta-analysis, the abstract suggests a positive relationship with Running economy.
- • Population: participants.
- • Protocol cues: abstract may omit dose/timing; use the full paper to replicate accurately.
Protocol
Protocol (as reported)
- • Intervention/exposure: does, stretching.
- • Dose/time/duration: abstract doesn’t include enough detail; use the full paper’s methods section.
- • Outcomes: Running economy.
- • Replication note: abstracts often omit adherence and timing; confirm details before changing training or supplementation.
Fit
Who it may help, and who should be cautious
Who it helps
- • Athletes similar to the study population (participants) working on biomechanics.
- • Athletes who can measure Running economy with a repeatable workout or time-trial effort.
Who should be cautious
- • If you have symptoms or conditions that make the intervention risky, get professional guidance.
- • If you’re near race day and can’t safely test, defer the experiment.
Methods
What the study actually did
- • Design: systematic review / meta-analysis.
- • Population: participants.
- • Outcomes measured: Running economy.
- • Source: PubMed PMID 15377965 (2004) — Clinical journal of sport medicine : official journal of the Canadian Academy of Sport Medicine.
Results excerpt
What the abstract reports
“There was 1 article that suggested improved running economy.”
Note: excerpts are short; for full context, read the paper.
Limits
Limitations and bias
- • Abstract-only summaries can miss critical details (population, protocol, adherence, and context).
- • Reviews and consensus statements mix protocols and populations; recommendations may not match your exact constraints.
- • If your context differs (elite vs recreational; cycling vs running), adjust expectations and be conservative.
- • This is performance information, not medical advice.
Adaptive AI coach for iPhone
Meet your adaptive AI coach.
Tell your coach what you are training for. It builds the plan, follows the work you complete, and adapts upcoming training when recovery, your schedule, or real life changes.
Keep going
Performance Science Lab
Research summaries for endurance athletes, with study context, practical protocols, and clear limitations.
Biomechanics performance research
Biomechanics changes can help — but most athletes should start with strength, cadence, and pacing.
Caffeine for endurance performance: a practical protocol
Evidence-informed protocol: Caffeine for endurance performance: a practical protocol. Practical steps, who it helps, and what to watch out for.