RADHAKRISHNAN. R1 , VENKATESAN. R2 , SENTHIL. P3 , KIRAN.V4

Authors:

2 Asst. Professor, Tamilnadu Physical Education and Sports University, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India. 3 Research scholar, Tamilnadu Physical Education and Sports University,Chennai, Tamilnadu, India. 4 Associate Professor, School of Physiotherapy, Vels Institute of Science & Technology, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India.

Corresponding Author:

1Research scholar, Tamilnadu Physical Education and Sports University , Chennai, Tamilnadu, India, Mail id: rraaddss@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to find out the effectiveness of Dynamic Core Stability Exercises and stretching in improving the flexibility of overweight persons who lack flexibility.

Methods: Fifteen   (N=15) overweight middle aged male subjects who had not been into regular exercising and lack flexibility were selected based on the BMI who scored more than 25.  All were basically screened out for their lifestyle and work related factors.  All the samples were put into flexibility test by using modified sit and reach test.  All had received dynamic core stability exercises and stretching of hamstring muscles and the outcome measure was measured using manual muscle testing and modified sit and reach test.

Results: The outcome measures of muscle power assessed using manual muscle testing (MMT) method 0-5 grading scale system.  The mean value of Pre test MMT score is 3.7 and that of the post test mean value is 4.4 which shows a significant improvement (P<0.0001).The flexibility was measured using modified sit and reach test and its mean pre test value is 9.3 and that of the post test value is 12.3 which shows a highly significant improvement in the flexibility (P<0.0001).

Conclusion: This study showed that person who was identified as overweight based on BMI, were found to be lacking of their body flexibility mainly of back muscles and hamstring muscles.  It is concluded that Dynamic core stability exercises and stretching was found to be useful in improving the muscle strength and flexibility.

Keywords: Overweight, BMI, Lack of Flexibility, Dynamic Core Stability Exercises, Stretching, Modified Sit and Reach Test