How can athletes improve their performance through flexibility training?

Flexibility training is crucial for athletes because it significantly reduces the risk of injuries. When muscles and joints are flexible, they can move through a greater range of motion, which allows for better performance and less strain during physical activity. Improved flexibility helps to maintain proper alignment and technique in various movements, which is essential in preventing injuries, particularly in sports that require quick direction changes or dynamic movements.

While increasing speed, winning more games, and enhancing teamwork skills are all relevant to athletic performance, they do not directly stem from flexibility training. The primary benefit of such training is the ability to protect the body from strains and sprains, ultimately allowing athletes to train more effectively over time without the setbacks that injuries often cause.