How can stretching enhance athletic performance?

Stretching enhances athletic performance primarily by improving range of motion, which is crucial for optimal movement efficiency and technique during physical activities. When athletes engage in regular stretching, they increase the flexibility of their muscles and joints, allowing for a greater extension during movements. This enhanced flexibility can lead to improved stride length and overall biomechanics, which are essential for sports that require explosive movements, agility, and endurance.

Additionally, increased range of motion can help prevent injuries by allowing the body to move more freely and reducing the risk of strains or sprains. This is particularly important for athletes who perform repetitive motions or engage in activities that place stress on specific muscle groups. By facilitating better movement patterns and encouraging proper alignment, stretching contributes to a more effective athletic performance, allowing athletes to achieve their desired outcomes in competition.

Other options fail to capture the benefits of stretching accurately. For example, stating that stretching only targets certain muscle groups ignores the comprehensive benefits of a well-rounded stretching routine that encompasses the entire body. Claiming that it decreases overall physical readiness contradicts the established role of stretching as a means to prepare the muscles for activity, enhancing blood flow and reducing muscle stiffness. Lastly, the notion that stretching makes athletes slower does not align with the evidence that increased flexibility contributes to a more