Abstract.
An increase in muscular flexibility, as well as a significant beneficial effect on heart rate and heart rate variability (HRV), was observed in healthy male athletes after performing a standardized 15-minute stretching-program over a period of 28 days. We believe the HRV increase to be due, at least in part, to the improved vagal and/or diminished sympathetic control. Therefore, we recommend stretching as an effective and gentle technique for health protection.
Article PDF
Similar content being viewed by others
Avoid common mistakes on your manuscript.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Corresponding author
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Mueck-Weymann, M., Janshoff, G. & Mueck, H. Stretching increases heart rate variability in healthy athletes complaining about limited muscular flexibility. Clin Auton Res 14, 15–18 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10286-004-0123-0
Received:
Revised:
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10286-004-0123-0