The Claim

In recreationally active adults, static stretching of the pectoralis major muscle for 15 minutes per day, 4 days per week over 8 weeks is associated with significant improvements in shoulder range of motion, as measured by an approximately 8.9% reduction in the bar width required during a shoulder pass-through test, and these improvements are greater than those achieved through resistance training.

Source: Influence of 8-weeks of supervised static stretching or resistance training of pectoral major muscles on maximal strength, muscle thickness and range of motion

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

If you stretch your chest muscles regularly for about 15 minutes, 4 times a week, for 8 weeks, you’ll likely get more shoulder flexibility—more than if you just did strength training.

See the scientific wording

Static stretching of the pectoralis major for 15 minutes per day, 4 days per week over 8 weeks is associated with significant improvements in shoulder range of motion (approximately 8.9% reduction in bar width required for shoulder pass-through test), with greater gains than those from resistance training in recreationally active adults.

What the research says

1 study
  1. Study: Influence of 8-weeks of supervised static stretching or resistance training of pectoral major muscles on maximal strength, muscle thickness and range of motion

    The study found that stretching the chest muscles for 15 minutes, 4 times a week, improved shoulder flexibility more than strength training, which matches what the claim says.

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.