Ballistic stretching

Ballistic stretching is a form of passive stretching or dynamic stretching in a bouncing motion. Ballistic stretches force the limb into an extended range of motion when the muscle has not relaxed enough to enter it. This may cause injury if not controlled properly or there is no adequate preparation, like warming up.

Some believe that controlled ballistic stretching in the form of bouncing can increase flexibility. This is true to a certain extent, but this could cause injury and is not the safest method of stretching (though it may lead to quick gains). It may also lead to higher levels of flexibility that may not normally be attainable by the limitations of human musculature and connective tissue, through causing tears in the tissues being stretched. For certain individuals this may not be advisable for health reasons.