What is active-isolated stretching primarily designed to improve?

Active-isolated stretching is primarily designed to improve flexibility. This technique involves holding a stretch for a short duration—typically about two seconds—before releasing it. This method allows the muscles to relax and elongate effectively, promoting an increase in range of motion.

The focus on short-duration holds, paired with active muscular contractions, helps to prevent the reflexive tension that often occurs with static stretching. By engaging the opposing muscles while stretching, active-isolated stretching enhances flexibility and prepares the muscles for movement, making it particularly beneficial for athletes and individuals looking to enhance their overall physical performance.

In contrast, while endurance, strength, and balance are important components of fitness, they are not the primary focus of active-isolated stretching. Endurance relates to stamina and the ability to sustain physical activity over time, strength involves the ability to exert force, and balance refers to stability and the ability to maintain control over body positioning, none of which directly stems from the practice of active-isolated stretching.