Which of the following techniques uses massage to improve flexibility?

Self myofascial release is a technique that utilizes massage to enhance flexibility by targeting and relieving tension in the fascia—the connective tissue surrounding muscles. This technique often involves the use of foam rollers or massage balls to apply pressure to specific areas, promoting blood flow and easing tightness. By releasing adhesions in the fascia, self myofascial release helps in improving the range of motion and fosters greater flexibility in the muscles.

Other techniques mentioned, while they may provide benefits related to muscle function and relaxation, do not specifically focus on the enhancement of flexibility in the same way self myofascial release does. Active release technique, for instance, is more focused on restoring movement in specific muscles by targeting knots and tight areas but is less about the overall flexibility improvements that can be achieved through self myofascial techniques. Deep tissue massage primarily targets deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue, which may offer relaxation and pain relief but does not directly focus on flexibility. Trigger point therapy addresses painful points in the muscle, primarily for pain relief, rather than flexibility enhancement. Therefore, self myofascial release is the most fitting choice for improving flexibility through the method of massage.