AFAA Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam 2025 – All-in-One Guide to Master Your Certification!

Ballistic stretching involves forcefully bouncing or jerking movements to push a muscle beyond its normal range of motion. This type of stretching can lead to increased risk of injury because it can cause muscles to stretch too quickly and beyond their elastic limits, potentially resulting in strains or tears. The rapid nature of the movements can also place undue stress on joints and connective tissues, leading to an increased chance of injury if proper technique and body control are not maintained.

In contrast, static stretching involves holding a stretch for a period of time, which allows for gradual elongation of muscles and is generally safer if done correctly. Dynamic stretching consists of controlled movements that gradually increase the range of motion and is typically used as part of a warm-up to prepare the body for activity. Active stretching engages the muscle being stretched while using another muscle's force to assist with the stretch, and when done properly, it is also less likely to cause injury compared to ballistic stretching.