What term describes exercises that move a joint through its full arc of motion?

• A. Strength training
• B. Range of motion
• C. Flexibility
• D. Endurance

Answer: (B)

Range of motion describes exercises that move a joint through its full arc of motion. These movements keep joints moving smoothly, help prevent stiffness and contractures, and preserve overall mobility. This is different from strength training, which aims to increase the force muscles can produce, and from flexibility, which is about how far muscles and tendons can stretch to allow movement. Endurance refers to sustaining activity over time, not specifically about moving a joint through its range. In care settings, ROM can be done passively by a caregiver or actively by the person, and it’s used to maintain joint function and prevent loss of movement.