What physical activity is suitable for improving flexibility?

Stretching exercises and yoga are well-known for their effectiveness in improving flexibility. Both activities involve a variety of movements that target different muscle groups, enhancing their range of motion and overall elasticity. Stretching exercises specifically focus on elongating muscles and tendons, which can lead to increased agility and a decreased risk of injury.

Yoga, on the other hand, incorporates stretching with balance, strength, and mindfulness, promoting not only flexibility but also relaxation and mental well-being. Each pose in yoga can help to improve specific areas of flexibility while also contributing to overall body awareness.

In contrast, running can improve cardiovascular fitness but does not significantly enhance flexibility, as the repetitive motion of running primarily engages the lower body in a limited range of motion. Weight lifting focuses on building strength and muscle mass, which can sometimes lead to reduced flexibility if not complemented with stretching. Cycling, while excellent for cardiovascular health and lower body strength, also does not significantly increase flexibility, as it predominantly involves repetitive movements that do not fully stretch the muscles.

Thus, engaging in stretching exercises or yoga provides the most targeted approach to enhancing flexibility.