The Claim

Static stretching training, performed at varying intensities, does not increase plantar flexor muscle strength or power output in young men over a four-week intervention period, with maximal voluntary isometric and concentric contraction torques and single-leg drop jump height remaining unchanged compared to baseline and control groups.

Source: Comparison Between High- and Low-Intensity Static Stretching Training Program on Active and Passive Properties of Plantar Flexors

What the research says

Supports is higher

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

Supports
49score
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.

Cause and effect
1 study reviewed
In plain English

Doing static stretches, whether hard or easy, won't make your calf muscles stronger or more powerful over a month. Your strength and jumping ability stay exactly the same because stretching doesn't actually force your muscles to work hard enough to build strength.

See the scientific wording

Static stretching training, whether performed at high or low intensity, does not increase plantar flexor muscle strength or power output in young men over a four-week period. Maximal voluntary isometric and concentric contraction torques, as well as single-leg drop jump height, remain unchanged compared to baseline and control groups, indicating that passive stretching lacks the mechanical overload necessary to stimulate neuromuscular strength adaptations.

What the research says

1 study
  1. Study: Comparison Between High- and Low-Intensity Static Stretching Training Program on Active and Passive Properties of Plantar Flexors

    The study found that stretching your calf muscles, whether hard or easy, for four weeks did not make them stronger or help you jump higher. It only improved flexibility.

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.