Passively taking a muscle to the point of tension and holding is which technique?

• A. Dynamic Stretching
• B. Active Stretching
• C. Ballistic Stretching
• D. Static Stretching

Answer: (D)

Holding a stretch passively at the point of tension describes static stretching. In this approach, the muscle is lengthened to its end range and kept still without actively contracting the muscle being stretched. The hold allows the muscle-tendon unit to adapt gradually, improving flexibility over time because the tissues settle into the new length under gentle, sustained tension. This contrasts with dynamic stretching, which uses movement through the range; active stretching, which relies on contracting the opposite muscle to create the stretch; and ballistic stretching, which involves rapid, bouncing motions that can increase injury risk. Typically, each stretch is held for about 15 to 60 seconds, done smoothly and without forcing beyond a comfortable limit.