What type of stretching is best suited for warming up before exercise?

Dynamic stretching is best suited for warming up before exercise because it involves moving parts of the body through a full range of motion in a controlled manner. This type of stretching actively engages the muscles and joints, which helps increase blood flow, enhance muscle elasticity, and prepare the body for the physical activity to come.

By incorporating movements such as leg swings, arm circles, or walking lunges, dynamic stretching mimics the motions of the upcoming workout, effectively raising the heart rate and activating the muscles. This prepares the body for activity, reducing the risk of injury while improving overall performance.

In contrast, static stretching involves holding a stretch in a fixed position, which is generally more effective for improving flexibility post-exercise rather than preparing the body for movement. PNF stretching, while beneficial for increasing flexibility, is a more advanced technique that typically requires a partner and is not appropriate for a warm-up context. Passive stretching relies on an external force to hold the position and also does not activate the muscles in a way that prepares them for vigorous activity. Therefore, dynamic stretching stands out as the optimal choice for warming up.