The purpose of the present study was to clarify the combined effects of stretching and resistance training on the active and passive dorsiflexion range of motion of ankle joint. Sixteen young adult men were randomly assigned to a training ( ) or a control ( ) group. The training group trained one leg for the combined program of static calf stretching and dorsiflexors resistance training program (STR+TR) and the other leg for static stretching program only (STR). The training group executed stretching of both legs every day and resistance training every other day for six weeks. After the training program, in STR+TR side, both active and passive dorsiflexion range of motions significantly ( ) increased and also isometric maximal voluntary dorsiflexion torque increased, while in STR side, only passive dorsiflexion range of motion increased. In passive dorsiflexion range of motion, increased dorsiflexion ROM was accompanied by increased tendon elongation not muscle elongation. In conclusion, the combined program of stretching for calf muscles and resistance training for dorsiflexors increases active as well as passive dorsiflexion range of motion, while static calf stretching program is effective only for the increase in passive dorsiflexion range of motion. 1. Introduction The range of motion (ROM) is a common index of joint mobility (flexibility). The ROM is generally defined in two conditions: active ROM, joint mobility with voluntarily effort using her/his own muscle strength, and passive ROM, joint mobility by an external force while the muscles crossing the joint remaining relaxed [1–4]. Both active and passive dorsiflexion (DF) ROMs are related to performances in daily activities and sports and a larger DF ROM is associated with higher efficiency of walking and running [5–8]. Also, Tainaka et al. [7] showed that, for elderly women, active DF ROM is one of the predictors of the onset of functional dependence. Clinically, reduced DF ROM is related to several leg and foot disorders, including Achilles tendinitis [9] and plantar fasciitis [10]. Furthermore, Wiesler et al. [8] found a relationship between the history of lower limb injury and the narrowness of DF ROM in dance students with the history of sprain. These reports indicate that DF ROM, active ROM in particular, plays an important role in improving or maintaining physical performances. However, many studies have shown that stretching training increases flexibility of the ankle joint [5, 11–13], although one study failed to improve active DF ROM after a 6-week static stretching regimen [4]. From
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