What is the primary purpose of measuring flexibility as a component of fitness?

Measuring flexibility primarily serves the purpose of evaluating joint range of motion. Flexibility reflects the ability of a muscle or muscle groups to lengthen passively through a range of motion. A greater range of motion around a joint can enhance performance in physical activities and decrease the risk of injuries. By assessing flexibility, individuals and trainers can identify areas where a person may have limitations, which can then be addressed through targeted stretching or mobility exercises. This focus on joint range of motion is crucial because adequate flexibility contributes to overall functional movement and athletic performance.

The other options relate to different aspects of fitness that do not specifically pertain to flexibility. Muscle mass is assessed through body composition measurements, strength is evaluated through resistance or weight training tests, and cardiovascular health is determined through aerobic capacity tests, none of which directly measure flexibility.