Which statement about flexibility training for older adults is true?

• A. Ballistic stretching is preferred
• B. Static stretching is less effective than ballistic stretching
• C. Dynamic stretching only
• D. Static stretching is preferred; static is better than ballistic

Answer: (D)

Flexibility training for older adults focuses on safety and gradual gains in range of motion. Static stretching—holding a stretch without bouncing—allows the muscle to lengthen in a controlled way, increasing ROM with a lower risk of injury compared to bouncing movements. Ballistic stretching uses rapid, bouncing motions that can overstress aging tissues, raising the chance of strains or joint irritation and is generally not recommended for this population. Dynamic stretching can be useful for warming up, but for lasting flexibility improvements, a safe, steady static stretch is preferred. So, the idea that static stretching is preferred and better than ballistic aligns with best practices for older adults.