Which stretching method involves using one's own muscles to maintain a stretch?

Active stretching is a technique where an individual uses their own muscular strength to hold a stretch in a position without assistance from an external force or partner. This method often involves contracting the muscle opposite to the one being stretched, allowing for better control over the stretch and typically leading to improved flexibility and strength over time.

In active stretching, the muscle that is being stretched is relaxed while the opposing muscle contracts. This contrasts with other methods, such as ballistic stretching, which involves bouncing movements, or dynamic stretching, which incorporates movement through a range of motion without holding a position. Isometric stretching, on the other hand, involves both an active contraction and a hold against resistance, often looking like static stretching with additional tension applied. Active stretching is beneficial because it can enhance proprioception and is effective in preparing the muscles for physical activities.