Abstract
Forty subjects (mean = 22.5 years, S.D. 2.56 years) were randomly selected who were not regularly involved in routine stretching exercises for the hamstring and low back. Subjects were compared for flexibility increase of the hamstrings and low back after a four-week training period using traditional stretching techniques and a new device, the Power Stretch. The subjects were divided randomly into three groups: (1) Group I (control 1, n = 12) which stretched with the assistance of a Certified Athletic Trainer; (2) Group II(control 2, n = 15) which stretched with no assistance and; (3) Group III(experimental, n = 13) which stretched with the Power Stretch. Flexibility was measured (after a short warm-up) using a Wells sit-and-reach box. Long-term flexibility was assessed by comparing flexibility before the four-week intervention and after the four-week intervention. The statistical results indicated there was a significant increase in long-term flexibility or all techniques, but there was no significant difference between the techniques. This study indicated that the Power Stretch was as effective as the traditional stretching techniques used in this study.