Which of the following best describes flexibility?

Flexibility is best described as the range of motion around a joint. This means it pertains to how far a joint can move in various directions, influenced by the elasticity of the muscles, tendons, and connective tissues surrounding the joint. Good flexibility is important for overall physical performance and reduces the risk of injuries during movements that require a broad range of motion, such as reaching, bending, or stretching.

In contrast, lifting heavy weights pertains to muscular strength, which is a different component of fitness. Speed of movement relates to agility and overall athletic performance, rather than flexibility. Similarly, while total muscular strength is vital for various physical activities, it does not define flexibility, which is specifically focused on joint movement capacity rather than strength or weight-lifting ability. Thus, understanding flexibility as the range of motion around a joint underscores its importance in physical activity and overall health.