Stretching is the act of extending targeted muscles to improve flexibility and range of motion. The benefits of stretching are extensive, but are encompassed in the ideas of decreasing an individual’s risk of injury, enhancing performance in physical activities, and improving joint range of motion. Stretching should be practiced 2-3 times a week. 

Static stretches are those in which you sit, stand, or lie down and hold the position. The muscle is held at a point of mild tension. These stretches involve no movement and target individual muscle flexibility.

Dynamic stretches feature controlled, active movements to prepare muscles for physical activity. These stretches involve a higher speed and intensity of muscle activity.