PURPOSE: To investigate and compare the acute changes in flexibility of hip extension in athletes of Rhythmic Gymnastics in terms of two stretching techniques: the static stretch and Mulligan's Long Leg Traction. METHODS: this is a case study, with a quasi experimental investigation. Participated eight female athletes with an average age of 13.25 years, divided into two groups. Group 1 performed Mulligan's Long Leg Traction and Group 2 performed static stretch. Photogrammetry was used to assess the range of motion of hip extension. The range of motion was assessed before the program beginning, before and immediately after each session. The duration of the protocol was six weeks (11 sessions). Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. RESULTS: Initial range of motion of hip extension was 31.38º in the left lower limb and 30.35º in right lower limb. Regarding the acute effects of stretching, the gain in Group 1 (4.73 ± 0.62º and 4.92 ± 0.26º in the left and right lower limb, respectively) was statistically significant superior than in Group 2 (3.42 ± 0.58º in left lower limb and 3.5 ± 0.70º in right lower limb). CONCLUSIONS: With respect to acute changes, Group 1 (Mulligan) had statistically greater gains than Group 2 (static stretching)
Flexibility; Muscle stretching exercises; Mulligan; Rhythmic gymnastics
