How can flexibility be effectively improved?

Improving flexibility is best achieved through regular stretching exercises. Stretching encourages the elongation of muscles and tendons, which enhances the range of motion in the joints. It can be categorized into different types, such as static stretching, dynamic stretching, and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF), each contributing to flexibility in various ways.

Regular stretching not only helps in increasing flexibility but also aids in injury prevention, improves posture, and enhances overall athletic performance. Incorporating stretching into a fitness routine can lead to significant improvements in motion, allowing individuals to perform activities with greater ease and effectiveness.

Other options focus on different aspects of fitness; for example, increasing weight in strength training primarily targets muscular strength and hypertrophy rather than flexibility. High-intensity interval training focuses on cardiovascular fitness and endurance, while reducing active movements does not promote flexibility at all, as minimizing movement limits the stretching of muscles and connective tissues. Hence, establishing a routine of regular stretching exercises remains the most effective method for improving flexibility.