Effectiveness between Static Stretching and Kneading Massage on Lowering Heart Rate among University Silat athletes

Abstract

Background. The purpose of this study is to determine the effectiveness of static stretching versus kneading massage in lowering heart rate (HR) recovery among silat athletes.

Method. Forty male subjects aged 18-25 years old were divided into two groups: the static stretching group (CG) and the kneading massage group (EG), both of which participated in this study. The subjects completed pre- and post-test sessions involving a 3-minute step-up box test followed by a recovery treatment program aimed at lowering heart rate, enabling the performance of heart rate monitor (HRM) tests immediately after treatment. Analysis of the recovery treatment program revealed significant differences in both groups regarding heart rate reduction.

Result. This study indicated that the percentage of heart rate recovery for the kneading massage group (EG) was 33%, compared to 21% in the static stretching group (CG). The results demonstrated that the kneading massage group (48.30 + 8.51 bpm) achieved a greater reduction in heart rate compared to the static stretching group (27.80 + 6.90 bpm) due to the respective treatments.

Conclusions. The research concludes that kneading massage is a more effective treatment than static stretching for enhancing the recovery of silat athletes in a short period of time.