Interset stretching does not influence the kinematic profile of consecutive bench-press sets.
Level 2 - randomized trial
Controlled crossover experimental trial with within-subject comparisons.
PubMed 20386480 · doi:10.1519/JSC.0b013e3181cf780d
What was done
Twenty-five college students performed two consecutive bench-press sets to failure at 60% of their 1-repetition maximum across three separate testing days. Between sets, participants completed static stretching, ballistic stretching, or no stretching. Researchers measured the acceleration portion and mean velocity profile during the concentric phase.
What was found
The acceleration portion and lifting velocity patterns of the concentric phase were not altered during the second set across any stretching condition. However, when velocity was expressed in absolute terms, static stretching significantly reduced the average lifting velocity during the second set compared to the first (p < 0.05). Exact numerical velocities, percentages, and variance were not reported in the abstract.
Why it matters
Static stretching between sets acutely impairs absolute movement velocity in bench pressing, suggesting it should be avoided or swapped for ballistic stretching when bar speed is prioritized.
Limits
The abstract reports on a small sample of college students (n = 25), examines only one exercise at 60% 1RM over two sets, gives no numeric values or confidence intervals, and only evaluates acute kinematics rather than chronic training outcomes.
Cited by
- supports Static stretching between resistance training sets reduces power and strength output.