The Claim

Daily extended static stretching of the calf muscles for one hour is associated with increased ankle dorsiflexion range of motion and enhanced joint mobility in recreationally active adults, with flexibility improvements comparable to those achieved through six weeks of hypertrophy-focused resistance training.

Source: Comparison of the effects of long-lasting static stretching and hypertrophy training on maximal strength, muscle thickness and flexibility in the plantar flexors

What the research says

Supports is higher

Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.

Supports
47score
Challenges
0score

These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.

Correlation
1 study reviewed
In plain English

Spending an hour a day stretching your calves can make your ankles more flexible, giving you the same mobility benefits as doing heavy leg workouts for six weeks.

See the scientific wording

Extended static stretching protocols involving one hour of daily calf muscle elongation are associated with improved ankle dorsiflexion range of motion in recreationally active adults, producing flexibility gains that are statistically equivalent to those observed following a standard hypertrophy-focused resistance training regimen over six weeks, indicating that prolonged passive tension can effectively enhance joint mobility.

What the research says

1 study
  1. Study: Comparison of the effects of long-lasting static stretching and hypertrophy training on maximal strength, muscle thickness and flexibility in the plantar flexors

    The study found that stretching your calves for an hour every day for six weeks improved your ankle flexibility just as much as doing traditional weightlifting exercises, proving that long, gentle stretches are just as effective for gaining mobility as heavy lifting.

Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies

Fit Body Science verdict — we translate health claims into clear verdicts backed by peer-reviewed research.

Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.