Effect of Stretching, Strengthening, Endurance, and Combination of Endurance-Stretching Training on Fascia Function: A Systematic Review

Considering the role of fascia as a viscoelastic matrix that surrounds muscles, bones, organs and nerve fibers, and its effects on human motor function, including flexibility, strength, resistance to pressure and injuries, in the present systematic review, the effects of stretching, strengthening, endurance, and combination of endurance-stretching training on fascia function were investigated.

After reviewing articles in major databases, such as Pubmed, Science Direct, Magiran, Noormags, and SID, using the words Myofascia, Fascia and Connective tissue, a study was conducted with over 55 articles published during 1984 to 2018.

All findings in the field of stretching, strengthening, endurance, and resistance-stretching exercises emphasize the positive effects of these exercises on fascia's fitness and function. Stretching and endurance exercises increase the stiffness and elasticity of the fascia. Strength and combined resistance-stretching exercises increase stiffness and reduce hysteresis of the Fascia.

With reegard to the positive effect of exercise training on facia performance, it is sugested that athletes perform the facial training along with muscle strength and cardiovascular endurance training to increase facial readiness and prevent injuries. Considering the results of the present survey, more studies are needed to be carries out on facia and its effect in enhancing performance of skills, sport injuries, and where the effect of exercise and/or performance perturbations is the case.