Flexibility is one part of fitness

The key question

MedlinePlus distinguishes endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility. Stretching may belong in a routine, but being flexible does not show that aerobic or strength needs have been met. Conversely, someone who is not very flexible can still benefit from appropriately chosen activity. Avoid treating a dramatic stretch photograph as a standard everyone should reach. General categories help organize movement; they do not identify the cause of pain or replace rehabilitation after an injury. [1]

Making activity sustainable

Physical activity includes transport, work, play, and planned exercise. Guidelines distinguish aerobic activity from strengthening and balance, and adapt recommendations to age and health. A weekly plan can start with manageable opportunities and progress gradually. Fitness is not measured only by body weight, and a demanding session is not the only useful session. The relevant comparison is often with your own starting point, rather than another person’s performance. [2]

Putting it into practice

Consider the different capacities in your routine and seek individualized help for painful movements. [1]

General activity guidance is not an individualized rehabilitation or pregnancy prescription. [2]