Which stretching method aims to increase muscle length through a maximum isometric contraction of the antagonist?

The stretching method designed to increase muscle length by utilizing a maximum isometric contraction of the antagonist involves contracting the muscle opposite to the one being stretched. This approach capitalizes on the neurological mechanisms within the muscles to promote increased flexibility.

In the context of the contract antagonist-relax (CA) method, when the antagonist (the muscle that opposes the primary muscle being targeted) is isometrically contracted, it effectively engages the reciprocal inhibition response. This response allows for a relaxation of the muscle being stretched, which in turn enables a greater range of motion and an increase in muscle length over time. The process is beneficial for improving flexibility since it combines both contraction and relaxation phases to maximize the stretch output.

In contrast, static stretching involves holding a stretch for a predetermined period without the dynamism of active contraction and relaxation, while dynamic stretching focuses on controlled movements that gently take the muscles through their range of motion rather than on muscle contraction. The contract-relax (CR) method also utilizes isometric contraction, but it specifically involves contracting the targeted muscle rather than its antagonist, thus differing from the CA approach.