Effect of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching on physical fitness: A Critical Analysis

Abstract

Background: PNF stretching is a reputed exercise for the development of physical exercise and sports performance. However, there was no review study on PNF stretching and physical fitness. Aim: The aim of the study was to identify the effect of PNF stretching on physical fitness in the perspective of positive effect, negative effect and no effect. Method: 28 articles fulfilling the criteria for made this review study after inclusion and exclusion were done. All articles were collected through online scientific data sources.\xa0 Discussion: Interpretation was made on the following three areas: PNF and positive effect on physical fitness; PNF and negative effect on physical fitness; PNF and no effect on physical fitness. Conclusion: It may be conclude that PNF stretching has some positive effect for the development of physical fitness, i.e flexibility, strength, balance, endurance, sprinting performance. Researchers reported some adverse effect on muscle activation and strength. Some researchers also reported that there was no effect on isometric maximal voluntary contraction and muscle activity.