Impact of static stretching on the gain in knee-extensor strength of community-dwelling older women after a training program.

Background: The decrease in muscle strength in older adults has an impact on functionality. Muscle strengthening programs have been proposed, however there is some controversy surrounding the effects of stretching prior to strengthening exercises on muscle strength gain.

Objective: To verify the impact of static stretching on the gain in knee-extensor strength of community-dwelling elderly women after a training program.