Effects of training using a stretch pole on physical functions: Focusing on the lateral abdominal muscle thickness and hip adductor strength

Abstract

[Purpose] To examine the effects of training using a stretch pole (‘Himetore’) on the lateral abdominal muscle thickness and hip adductor strength. [Subjects and Methods] Sixty-two healthy university students were divided into 3 groups: 1) training using ‘Himetore’; 2) training without using it; and 3) not training at all. During the 3-week study period, Groups-1) and 2) trained 3 times a week. At the beginning and end of this period, the students’ lateral abdominal muscle thickness and hip adductor strength were measured to calculate the rate of change. [Results] There was a significant increase in the hip adductor strength of Group-1), and such an increase was particularly marked among females, while there was no change in the lateral abdominal muscle thickness. [Conclusion] The results support the effectiveness of 3-week training using ‘Himetore’ to enhance the hip adductor strength, although the lateral abdominal muscle thickness remained unchanged.