What is the primary characteristic of static stretching?

Static stretching is characterized by slow and sustained muscle lengthening. This technique involves gradually elongating a muscle to its maximum stretch and holding that position for an extended period, typically 15 to 60 seconds. This type of stretching is widely used to improve flexibility and increase the range of motion in the joints. It allows the muscles to relax and gradually extend, which can help in reducing muscle tension and promoting blood circulation to the targeted area.

In contrast to static stretching, other methods like rapid bouncing movements (often referred to as ballistic stretching) are designed to stretch the muscle quickly and can risk injury. Dynamic movements involve active movements that stretch the muscle through its range of motion but are not held in a stretched position. Free movement of distal segments relates to joint mobility and athletic performance but does not define static stretching. Thus, the essence of static stretching being a slow, controlled, and sustained lengthening of the muscle makes it the correct choice.