What is the term for moving a joint through its full range of motion in stretching?

Moving a joint through its full range of motion in a controlled, movement-based stretch is called dynamic stretching. Unlike a held stretch, it uses repeated active movements to take muscles and joints through positions relevant to exercise or sport.

Typical examples include walking lunges, arm circles, leg swings, and controlled high-knee movements. Dynamic stretching is often included in a warm-up because it raises body temperature and rehearses movement patterns without keeping a muscle stationary for a long time.

The main contrast is static stretching, in which a position is held without movement. Passive stretching uses an outside force, such as a partner or strap, while ballistic stretching uses bouncing or swinging momentum and can push beyond a normal range of motion. These categories can overlap: a stretch may be dynamic and active, or static and passive.

Dynamic stretching is not the same as simply forcing a joint to its absolute limit. Safe practice emphasizes smooth, controlled movement and a comfortable range, gradually expanding motion as the body warms up.