Which of the following is an appropriate stretching/warm-up activity?

Which of the following is an appropriate stretching/warm-up activity?

• A. Supine hamstring stretch
• B. Standing bicep curl
• C. Cable seated row
• D. Wall sit

Answer: (A)

The supine hamstring stretch is an appropriate stretching/warm-up activity as it effectively targets the hamstrings, which are commonly tight in many individuals. Stretching these muscles helps improve flexibility, increase blood flow, and prepares the body for more dynamic movements that may follow in a workout. This type of passive stretching can be particularly beneficial for seniors, promoting improved range of motion and reducing the risk of injury during physical activity. In contrast, activities like standing bicep curls and cable seated rows focus on strength training rather than stretching and warming up. These exercises primarily engage the muscles without effectively preparing the body by increasing flexibility or range of motion. Additionally, the wall sit is an isometric strength exercise targeting the quadriceps, which again does not fulfill the goal of a warm-up activity. A proper warm-up ideally incorporates dynamic movements or stretches that elevate heart rate and increase overall body temperature, making the supine hamstring stretch a suitable choice.

The supine hamstring stretch is an appropriate stretching/warm-up activity as it effectively targets the hamstrings, which are commonly tight in many individuals. Stretching these muscles helps improve flexibility, increase blood flow, and prepares the body for more dynamic movements that may follow in a workout. This type of passive stretching can be particularly beneficial for seniors, promoting improved range of motion and reducing the risk of injury during physical activity.

In contrast, activities like standing bicep curls and cable seated rows focus on strength training rather than stretching and warming up. These exercises primarily engage the muscles without effectively preparing the body by increasing flexibility or range of motion. Additionally, the wall sit is an isometric strength exercise targeting the quadriceps, which again does not fulfill the goal of a warm-up activity. A proper warm-up ideally incorporates dynamic movements or stretches that elevate heart rate and increase overall body temperature, making the supine hamstring stretch a suitable choice.