the effect of periodized and non-periodized stretch training protocols on improving balance and flexibility

Background: previous studies have demonstrated that stretching exercise modalities significantly influence both injury prevention and athletic performance. objectives: this study examined the comparative effects of periodized versus non-periodized stretching protocols on static balance, dynamic balance, and flexibility. methods: forty-five male physical education students were allocated to three groups (control, n = 15; periodized stretching, n = 15; non-periodized stretching, n = 15). intervention groups performed nine stretching exercises in either periodized or non-periodized formats for six weeks (three sessions/week). hamstring flexibility (sit-and-reach test), static balance (stork test), and dynamic balance (y-balance test) were assessed at baseline, 4 weeks, and 6 weeks. repeated-measures anova was employed to analyze within- and between-group effects. results: the duration of stretching intervention significantly improved static balance, dynamic balance, and hamstring flexibility. leg dominance significantly affected both static and dynamic balance. however, no significant between-group differences were observed for any outcome measures (p > 0.05). conclusions: our findings suggest that a minimum six-week stretching intervention, whether periodized or non-periodized, is necessary for significant improvements in balance and flexibility. both stretching protocols demonstrated comparable efficacy, supporting their interchangeable use in training programs.