Final answer:
Yoga, ballet, and gymnastics require better than normal flexibility to perform complex movements safely and effectively. Flexibility exercises help increase joint flexibility, keep muscles limber, and improve range of motion, which are essential for these activities. They also prevent injuries that could arise from the tightness caused by repetitive movements in other professions or activities.
Step-by-step explanation:
Activities such as yoga, ballet, and gymnastics require better than normal flexibility because participants need to perform complex movements that involve a wide range of motion. Flexibility exercises are crucial in these disciplines as they help in stretching and lengthening muscles, which in turn increases joint flexibility, keeps muscles limber, and improves range of motion. This heightened flexibility is essential not only to achieve the physical postures and movements within these activities but also to reduce the risk of activity-related injuries. For instance, in gymnastics where athletes must contort and flex their bodies, a strong muscular system is vital for performance and safety as noted in Figure 11.1 A Body in Motion.
Additionally, professions or activities that involve repetitive movements, such as computer operators or professional violinists, can cause the body to develop imbalances or tightness in certain muscle groups. Flexibility exercises can counteract these effects, promoting a more balanced and injury-resistant physique. Moreover, a discipline like ballet, which requires a combination of strength, precision, and flexibility, benefits from the agility and muscle coordination that flexibility training provides. Conversely, the lack of flexibility may increase the risk of falls and injuries, which is why practices such as yoga encourage balance to enhance overall health.