What does the term "flexibility" refer to in physical fitness?

In physical fitness, "flexibility" primarily refers to the range of motion available at a joint. This involves the ability of muscles, tendons, and connective tissues to stretch, allowing for movement in various directions and angles. Improved flexibility is crucial for overall athletic performance, injury prevention, and rehabilitation. It enables individuals to perform movements more freely and can enhance the effectiveness of workouts by allowing for a greater range of motion in exercises.

The other options describe different aspects of physical fitness: the ability to lift weights pertains to strength training, cardiovascular endurance relates to the efficiency of the heart and lungs during prolonged activity, and muscle strength is about the force muscle contractions can generate. Each of these is important but distinct from the concept of flexibility.