Introduction: Resistance training has been shown to improve muscle strength, while static stretching improves joint range of motion. Given the similarities in some of the underlying mechanisms, it is possible that static stretching could enhance muscle strength and that resistance training could improve flexibility. However, evidence in this area remains limited. Purpose: This literature review aimed to compare the effects of resistance training and static stretching on muscle strength and flexibility. Methods: A descriptive literature review was conducted using the PubMed database covering the past fifteen years. Studies that directly compared the effects of resistance training and static stretching were included. Results: Six studies met the inclusion criteria. Three reported statistically significant increases in muscle strength in both intervention groups compared to the control group. Four studies found no statistically significant differences in flexibility changes between the intervention groups. Two studies reported simultaneous increases in muscle strength and flexibility in both intervention groups compared to the control group, with no significant differences between them. Discussion and Conclusion: Static stretching and resistance training may influence muscle strength and flexibility when appropriate training parameters are applied. Due to limitations of the studies and the literature review, interpretation of the results is challenging, which encourages further research.
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