Posterior thigh muscles flexibility profiling: a comparative study of trail and road runners
https://doi.org/10.47529/2223-2524.2026.1.6
Abstract
Purpose of the study: To identify and analyse differences in posterior thigh muscles flexibility profiles between recreational runners on trail and road surfaces.
Methods: This study employed an observational cross-sectional design. The sampling technique used was purposive sampling, in which respondents were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Posterior thigh muscles flexibility was assessed using an inclinometer through the Passive Straight Leg Raise (PSLR) test. Data were analysed using an independent t-test based on normality of distribution and homogeneity of variances.
Results: The p-value was 0.321 for the right posterior thigh muscles and 0.927 for the left, indicating no statistically significant differences in flexibility between groups.
Conclusions: The type of running surface did not demonstrate a measurable effect on posterior thigh muscle flexibility in the study population. The findings of this study underscore the importance of implementing targeted training programs aimed at both preventing injury and strengthening the posterior thigh muscles.
About the Authors
F. Rahman
University Muhammadiyah Surakarta
Indonesia
Indonesia
Farid Rahman, M.Or., Associate Professor, Department of Physiotherapy
Jl. a. Yani Tromol Pos 1 Pabelan, Kartasura, Surakarta, Indonesia, 57162
M. S. Muwaffaq
University Muhammadiyah Surakarta
Indonesia
Indonesia
Muhammad Shamil Muwaffaq, Student, Department of Physiotherapy
Jl. a. Yani Tromol Pos 1 Pabelan, Kartasura, Surakarta, Indonesia, 57162
R. Febriansyah
University Muhammadiyah Surakarta
Indonesia
Indonesia
Rizqy Febriansyah, Student, Department of Physiotherapy
Jl. a. Yani Tromol Pos 1 Pabelan, Kartasura, Surakarta, Indonesia, 57162
M. R. Ishad
University Muhammadiyah Surakarta
Indonesia
Indonesia
Muhammad Raihan Ishad, Student, Department of Physiotherapy
Jl. a. Yani Tromol Pos 1 Pabelan, Kartasura, Surakarta, Indonesia, 57162
A. Azizan
Universiti Teknologi MARA
Malaysia
Malaysia
Azliyana Azizan, PT, PhD, Senior Lecturer, Centre of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences
Jalan Ilmu 1/1, Shah Alam, Selangor, 40450, Malaysia
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For citations:
Rahman F., Muwaffaq M.S., Febriansyah R., Ishad M.R., Azizan A. Posterior thigh muscles flexibility profiling: a comparative study of trail and road runners. Sports medicine: research and practice. 2026;16(1):67-78. https://doi.org/10.47529/2223-2524.2026.1.6
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