Why does stretching help before sports?
Show answer & explanation
Answer: Increases muscle flexibility
Increases muscle flexibility ✓ — Correct! Stretching lengthens muscle fibers and increases range of motion. This prepares muscles for activity and may reduce injury risk. Dynamic stretching before sports is now preferred over static stretching!
Removes waste from muscles — Wrong. Waste removal happens through blood circulation, not stretching. Stretching primarily affects muscle length and flexibility.
Cools muscles down — Wrong. Stretching doesn't cool muscles—warming up actually raises muscle temperature. Stretching improves flexibility.