Correct Response: B. A straight-legged standing toe-touch is considered a high-risk exercise and no longer recommended for students or adults. This forward bend with rounded back places undue stress on the lower back by excessively stretching ligaments that hold the vertebrae in place, thereby creating potential for both immediate and long-term injury to the lower back. Cervical ligaments are not at risk (A) unless the neck is hyperextended. A stretch reflex in the hamstring (C) would only be likely to occur with a bounced stretch, which is also unsafe. The shoulders are typically not hyperextended (D) during a standing toe-touch.
