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Class XII – Physical Education – Paper – 3

Time allowed: 3 hrs.                                                                                                               Max Marks: 70

General Instructions:

1. The question paper consists of 5 sections and 37 Questions.

2. Section A consists of questions 1-18 carrying 1 mark each and are multiple choice questions. All questions are compulsory.

3. Section B consists of questions 19-24 carrying 2 marks each and are very short answer types and should not exceed 60-90 words. Attempt any 5.

4. Section C consists of questions 25-30 carrying 3 marks each and are short answer types and should not exceed 100-150 words. Attempt any 5.

5. Section D consists of questions 31-33 carrying 4 marks each and are case studies. There is internal choice available.

6. Section E consists of questions 34-37 carrying 5 marks each and are long answer types and should not exceed 200-300 words. Attempt any 3.

SECTION—A

1. In a residential area, a camp was organized to check the functional fitness level of the senior citizens. During testing, it was found that there was a less range of motion in the joints of upper extremities in most of the elderly people. Which test is administrated to check this functional fitness component?

Ans. (c) 3

2. There are ……………..basic functions of Management.

(a) four

(b) five

(c) six

(d) eight

3. Hypertension is a condition of :

(a) problem in lungs

(b) low blood pressure

(c) pain in spine

(d) high blood pressure in blood vessels

4. Which of the following asana is NOT used to cure Asthma ?

(a) Tadasana

(b) Dhanurasana

(c) Parvatasana

(d) Bhujangasana

5. Given below are the two statements labelled Assertion (A) and Reason (R) :

Assertion (A) : Special Olympics provides year-round training and competitions to 5 million athletes and unified sports partners in 172 countries.

Reason (R) : Special Olympics is not recognised by the international Olympic committee. In the context of above two statements, which one of the following is correct ?

(a) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).

(b) Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).

(c) (A) is true, but (R) is false.

(d) (A) is false, but (R) is true.

6. Logistics committee deals with :

(a) Accommodation

(b) Transportation

(c) Medical Staff

(d) All of the above

7. Which of the asana is for relaxation ?

(a) Makarasana

(b) Bhadrasana

(c) Ardha-Chakrasana

(d) All of the above

8. Identify the type of injury shown in the picture given below :

(a) Abrasion

(b) Ankle sprain

(c) Fracture

(d) None of these

9. Match List – I with List – II and select the correct answer from the code given below :

Ans. (a) (i)-2, (ii)-1, (iii)-4, (iv)-3

10. Given below are the two statements labelled Assertion (A) and Reason (R) :

Assertion (A) : Different sports require same level and type of strength.

Reason (R) : Strength is largely developed through weight training. In the context of the above two statements, which one of the following is correct ?

(a) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).

(b) Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).

(c) (A) is true, but (R) is false.

(d) (A) is false, but (R) is true.

11. In slow or extensive interval training method, the heart rate is kept around ……… beats per minute :

(a) 100 to 120

(b) 120 to 130

(c) 140 to 180

(d) 130 to 160

12. What is an ideal weight to be reduced in one week ?

(a) 250 gms to 500 gms

(b) 500 gms to 1 kg

(c) 1kg to 1.5 kg

(d) kg to 2 kgs

13. Aggression is displayed in sports through ……………… .

(a) assertion of views

(b) use of abusive words

(c) walking away from the opponent

(d) strictly following the rules

14. Which of the following are involved in injuries called “sprains” ?

(a) Bones

(b) Tendons

(c) Ligaments

(d) Blood vessels

15. Following are the lower extremities deformities except :

(a) Flat Foot

(b) Round Shoulder

(c) Knock Knee

(d) Genu Varum

16. Which of the following provide the building blocks for hormones and formation of cell walls :

(a) Fats

(b) Minerals

(c) Carbohydrates

(d) Vitamins

17. Which disease is caused by the deficiency of vitamin B3 ?

(a) Beri-beri

(b) Pellagra

(c) Rickets

(d) Night blindness

18. Mechanical analysis of Javelin thrown by Neeraj Chopra will be done under :

(a) Biology

(b) Biomechanics

(c) Physiology

(d) Anatomy

SECTION—B

19. What do you mean by ‘‘Anorexia Nervosa’’?

Ans. Anorexia nervosa is a type of eating disorder. It is a serious and potentially life threatening mental illness. The eating disorder is characterized by self starvation and excessive weight loss.

20. What does Plate Tapping Test measure ?

Ans. The Plate Tapping Test (Reaction Tap Test) is a reaction test using an alternating wall tapping action which measures upper body reaction time, hand-eye quickness and coordination.

21. What is Newton’s Second law of motion ?

Ans. Newton’s second law of motion states that, “the rate of change of momentum of a body is directly proportional to the resultant force acting on it and takes place in the same direction”.

22. Write two techniques of motivation.

Ans. The two techniques of motivation are :

(i) Goal Setting (ii) Rewards

23. What is acceleration run ?

Ans. The athlete starts from start line and tries to attain the maximum speed at the earliest and finish the specified distance at that speed. Such runs are repeated many number of times with suitable short intervals in between runs. Such runs are called acceleration runs.

24. Enlist two sources of calcium.

Ans. Milk and Cheese.

SECTION—C

25. What is the significance of intramurals?

Ans. Following are the significance of Intramurals:

There are various objectives/advantages/significance of intramurals which are described below:

1. Selection for extramural: Intramural tournaments provide an opportunity to select talented players or team to participate in extramural tournaments. Those players who show skill and fitness in these events can be selected for extramurals.

2. Group cohesion: Intramurals allow students from different classes and houses to work together as a team, promoting cooperation and coordination. Students from different background, and communities come together as a group and gain self-confidence, develop social relations, tolerance in culture etc.

3. Professional experience: Intramurals provide an opportunity for students to assist in organising and managing the tournament, allowing them to gain experience in officiating and event management. This experience can be valuable in both personal and professional aspects, as it helps to develop skills such as leadership, communication and organisation. By participating in intramurals, students can develop valuable skills that can benefit them in the future.

26. What are the risk factors of Back pain?

Ans. Back pain can come on suddenly and last less than six weeks (acute), which may be caused by a fall or heavy lifting. Back pain that lasts more than three months (chronic) is less common than acute pain. Main causes of back pain are:

1. Muscle or ligament strain: Repeated heavy lifting or a sudden awkward movement may strain back muscles and spinal ligaments. If you’re in poor physical condition, constant strain on your back may cause painful muscle spasms.

2. Bulging or ruptured Discs: Discs act as cushions between the bones (vertebrae) in your spine. The soft material inside a disc can bulge or rupture and press on a nerve. However, you can have a bulging or ruptured disk without back pain. Disc disease is often found incidentally when you undergo spine X-rays for some other reason.

3. Arthritis: Osteoarthritis can affect the lower back. In some cases, arthritis in the spine can lead to a narrowing of the space around the spinal cord, a condition called spinal stenosis.

4. Skeletal irregularities: Back pain can occur if your spine curves abnormally. Scoliosis, a condition in which your spine curves to the side, also may lead to back pain, but generally only if the scoliosis is severe.

5. Osteoporosis: Your spine’s vertebrae can develop compression fractures if your bones become porous and brittle.

27. Write briefly about the concept of inclusive education.

Ans. It’s difficult to argue that people with disabilities have less favourable experiences than most when it comes to sports. Children with disabilities face a great deal of barriers that limit their participation in sport. Some of these barriers are physical, while others are created by a lack of awareness and opportunity. Many people without disabilities have a difficult time understanding the barriers that people with disabilities face, and therefore have a difficult time involving them within a team. Other common barriers faced by individuals with disabilities include a lack of opportunity in sport, a lack of accessible facilities to play sport, and limited information to resources about sport.

Inclusion in sports and physical education refers to the students with disabilities to participate in all the activities. It means that these students get equal chance to participate in all activities, and they too learn the same curriculum just like other students.

“Inclusion in sport” then, would be the idea of breaking down these barriers, so that all children have equal opportunity to play sports, regardless of disability. It means to create learning environments where students with disabilities are engaging with their peers without disabilities, accessing and participating in the physical education curriculum in meaningful ways.

28. Discuss about the treatment of strain.

Ans. Treatment steps for strain:

The principles of P.R.I.C.E. should be used for the first 48 – 72 hours immediately after the strain injury.

Protection: The first principle is protection. The purpose of protection is to avoid further injury to the area by protecting the injured structures.

Rest: The injured area must remain relatively inactive for the first 48–72 hours. The duration of the rest depends on the severity of the injury.

Ice: The application of ice causes the blood vessels to constrict, thus decreasing circulation and resulting in less inflammation at the site. Where possible, ice should be applied to the surrounding area, in addition to the direct site. Ice should be applied in a wet towel for periods of 20–30 minutes every two hours for the first 48–72 hours. Do not apply ice, or a plastic bag containing ice, directly onto the skin. Care should also be taken when applying ice in the region of the eye.

Compression: In addition to the application of ice, compression should be applied using a wide elastic bandage over the injured site and surrounding area. This will help to reduce the swelling by limiting fluid build-up. It also provides support for the injured site. Care should be taken to ensure that circulation is not constricted by bandaging too tightly.

Elevation: Elevation of the injured part above the level of the heart reduces the volume and pressure of blood flow to the injured area, thus limiting inflammation. Elevation can be achieved for most injuries by supporting the injured area while the casualty is seated or lying down.

Actions to be avoided

During the first 48–72 hours after an injury there are certain actions that must be avoided. These include the application of heat (for example, use of hot liniments, spas, saunas and hot baths), drinking alcohol, physical activity and massage. These actions all increase blood flow, and therefore swelling.

29. Write the methods of reducing and increasing friction.

Ans. Methods of Reducing Friction

(i) Polishing the surface: Friction can be reduced by polishing and rubbing the surface to reduce their unevenness and making the surface smooth.

(ii) Lubrication: Lubricants such as oil, grease etc. are used to minimize the force of friction.

(iii) Streamlining: Streamlining applies to the friction generated by the wind and liquids. By adopting a more streamlined shape, the flow of air or liquid will be smoother and easier against the surface of a particular object.

(iv) Ball bearing or roller bearing: The use of ball bearings and rollers greatly reduces friction between surfaces, as it changes the nature of the relative motion between the surfaces from sliding to rolling.

(v) Special Designing: Now days, specially designed helmets are used in some sports to reduce friction and save important time. These helmets reduce friction by allowing air to flow over the head and down the back.

Methods of Increasing Friction

(i) By making both the surfaces rough. In this way irregularities of both surfaces will be interlocked. e.g. spikes on soles of shoes.

(ii) Press the two surfaces together harder: The friction between two surfaces can be increased if the surfaces are pressed into each other with greater force.

(iii) Using Magnesium Powder: In some sports like weight lifting, gymnastics, outdoor/indoor rock climbing, badminton, tennis, basketball, golf, bowling, baseball and Pole dancing, athletes always smear white powder (magnesium powder) into their hands and instruments. Magnesium carbonate powder can absorb the palms sweat, at the same time it also can increase the friction between the palms and instruments. In this way, athletes can hold equipment perfectly.

(iv) Remove lubrication between the two surfaces: To increase friction, remove any lubricants, using only “dry”, un-lubricated parts to generate friction

30. Write advantages and disadvantages of isokinetic exercises.

Ans. Advantages of Isokinetic Exercises:

1. Allows development of strength of over full range of motion.

2. Exercise can be performed at a variety of speeds.

3. Endurance can also be improved.

4. It is the fastest way to improve muscle strength.

Disadvantages of Isokinetic Exercises:

1. High cost Equipment is required.

2. To be performed under strict observations of a trainer.

3. These exercises are mostly exhaustive in nature.

SECTION—D

31. A sports event cannot be conducted without a sports management team. There are so many roles and responsibilities which go behind the scenes to have everything work seamlessly on the day of the event. Radhika and her friends have been chosen by their physical education teacher to participate in the sports day management committee. Their teacher has given them a layout of the team and their duties. Based on this information, answer the following questions:

(a) …………………. is the first and foremost step while preparing for any sports related event.

(b) …………………. means identifying the necessary staff and recruiting them.

(c) A function of guiding, inspiring and instructing people to accomplish organizational goals in the sports event management is …………………. .

(d) …………………. is the measurement & correction of performance activities in order to make sure that the enterprise objectives and plans desired to obtain them are being accomplished.

Or

(d) …………………. is deciding in advance what to do, how to do and who is to do it.

Ans. (a) Planning (b) Staffing (c) Directing (d) Controlling or (d) Planning

32. Posture is an important part of our long-term health. A person should make sure that he holds his body the right way, whether moving or still, can prevent pain, injuries and other health problems. Postural deformities may be caused by heredity, disease, injury, poor habits, improper clothing, unhygienic living conditions, improper diet, improper exercise, lack of exercise, obesity, socioeconomic status, etc. These can be treated by corrective advice and exercises by a physician or a physiotherapist. Based on this information, answer the following questions :

(a) ………………. posture is the ability to hold oneself during movement for example during walking, bending down, running etc.

(b) A knee misalignment in which the knees turn inward and touch each other is called as ………………. .

(c) The scientific term used for round upper back or hunch back is ………………. .

(d) Scoliosis is a deformity with exaggerated ………………. curvature of the spine.

Or

(d) The medical name for knock knees is ………………. .

Ans. (a) Dynamic (b) Knock knees (c) Kyphosis (d) lateral/sideways or (d) genu valgum

33. Raj’s father was experiencing symptoms of frequent urination, fatigue, numbness in feet and lost 10 kgs in the last 2 months without any dieting. Upon investigations by the physician, he was diagnosed with Diabetes Mellitus type II. The doctor started his medicines, gave dietary advice and asked him to practice yoga, exercise regularly. Based on this information, answer the following questions :

(a) Diabetes mellitus occurs due to deficiency of ………………. hormone.

(b) Excessive thirst in diabetes is called as ………………. .

(c) ………………. diabetes is a type of diabetes which may occur during pregnancy.

(d) The blood sugar levels of a diabetic person will be ………………. than that of a non-diabetic individual.

Or

(d) Diabetes occurs when the ………………. does not produce enough insulin or when the body does not use insulin properly.

Ans. (a) insulin (b) polydipsia (c) Gestational (d) higher or (d) pancreas

SECTION—E

34. Write down Physical activities exercise guidelines for children under 5 years of age.

Ans. For children under 5 years of age

(a) In a 24-hour day, infants (less than 1 year) should:

• Be physically active several times a day in a variety of ways, particularly through interactive floor-based play; more is better. For those not yet mobile, this includes at least 30 minutes in prone position (tummy time) spread throughout the day while awake;

• Not be restrained for more than 1 hour at a time (e.g., prams/strollers, high chairs, or strapped on a caregiver’s back);

• Screen time is not recommended.

• When sedentary, engaging in reading and storytelling with a caregiver is encouraged; and have 14-17h (0- 3 months of age) or 12-16h (4-11 months of age) of good quality sleep, including naps.

(b) In a 24-hour day, children 1-2 years of age should:

• Spend at least 180 minutes in a variety of types of physical activities at any intensity, including moderateto vigorous-intensity physical activity, spread throughout the day; more is better;

• Not be restrained for more than 1 hour at a time (e.g., prams/strollers, high chairs, or strapped on a caregiver’s back) or sit for extended periods of time.

• For 1 year olds, sedentary screen time (such as watching TV or videos, playing computer games) is not recommended.

• For those aged 2 years, sedentary screen time should be no more than 1 hour; less is better.

• When sedentary, engaging in reading and storytelling with a caregiver is encouraged; and have 11-14h of good quality sleep, including naps, with regular sleep and wake-up times.

(c) In a 24-hour day, children 3-4 years of age should:

• Spend at least 180 minutes in a variety of types of physical activities at any intensity, of which at least 60 minutes is moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity, spread throughout the day; more is better;

• Not be restrained for more than 1 hour at a time (e.g., prams/strollers) or sit for extended periods of time.

• Sedentary screen time should be no more than 1 hour; less is better.

• When sedentary, engaging in reading and storytelling with a caregiver is); encourage; and have 10-13h of good quality sleep, which may include a nap, with regular sleep and wake-up times.

35. Explain some important Food Myths.

Ans. FOOD MYTHS

There are many food myths. Many people just believe everything they hear or read, but one should ask questions and research the topic if one really wants to get to the truth. India is a country rich in flavours, spices and foods. Each part of the country has a rich food heritage that spans the ingredients used, the cooking techniques and the combination of flavours. But with the large number of food cultures and sub-cultures, come the myths. What to eat, when to eat and how often to eat are such questions which usually confuse. Here’s the scientific explanation for most widely believed food myths in India.

Myth : 1. The fewer the carbohydrates, healthier you are.

Fact : The idea that carbohydrates are bad is a myth. Choosing the healthiest carbohydrates, especially whole grains, is important for our health and well-being. Eating whole grains is associated with a decreased risk of chronic diseases and premature mortality. However, we should avoid refined carbohydrates.

Myth : 2. Oils/Margarine have fewer calories than Ghee/butter.

Fact : Ghee, Butter and Oils, Margarine have almost the same amount of calories. Margarine is made from vegetable oils while butter is derived from dairy. Earlier margarine was seen as a healthier alternative to butter (which contains cholesterol and saturated fat), but later in many studies it was found that some margarines are actually unhealthier because they contain trans fats, which increases blood cholesterol levels and risk of heart disease.

Myth : 3. Apples and brinjals are rich in iron because they turn brown when cut.

Fact : One of the greatest myths about apples and brinjals is that they turn brown when cut because they are good sources of iron. This is not true. They are an excellent source of fibre but not iron. The change in colour is due to an enzymatic reaction and has nothing to do with iron.

Myth : 4. Potatoes make you fat :

Fact : Carbohydrates are the body’s preferred energy source. Eating a potato, or any type of carbohydrate rich food, won’t automatically make you fatter. So, there is no problem in eating potatoes in moderate quantities.

Myth : 5. Drinking water in between your meals will mess up your digestion :

Fact : The theory behind this misconception is that digestive juices and enzymes will be diluted by the fluid, and this will slow down the digestion and lead to excess body fat. There is no scientific evidence to back this up. In fact, evidence suggests that drinking water with your meal improves digestion.

Myth : 6. Eating eggs increase cholesterol :

Fact : Eggs are low in saturated fat. Moderate egg consumption – up to one a day – does not increase cholesterol risk in healthy individuals and can be part of a healthy diet. Eggs are a nutritious whole food which are an inexpensive source of protein and contain other nutrients.

Myth : 7. The peel of fruits and vegetables contain no nutrients :

Fact : Peels are packed with beneficial nutrients. The amounts of nutrients they contain vary based on the type of fruit or vegetable. However, generally speaking, non-peeled produce contains higher amounts of vitamins, minerals and other beneficial plant compounds, compared to its peeled counterparts.

Myth : 8. Having milk immediately after eating fish :

Fact : Some believe that the combination of milk and fish makes you sick while some believe it makes spots appear on your skin. But there is no scientific reason why you cannot have milk and fish together. In fact, there are many wonderful and healthy recipes around which combine the goodness of fish and milk.

Myth : 9. Drinking lots of milk :

Fact : Milk is a wonderful source of calcium, protein and also important minerals like phosphorus and magnesium. But filling up with too much milk also means that one won’t have enough appetite left to eat the remainder of a balanced diet. So drink milk in moderation.

Myth : 10. Eating ghee after pregnancy :

Fact : Sometimes new mothers are fed ghee-laden laddoos, post delivery, to help their bodies heal. While 1-2 tbsp of ghee is good for the new mother, more than that is just excess calories, which are better expended on other calcium and protein-rich foods.

36. Describe the methods of speed development.

Ans. METHODS TO DEVELOP SPEED

Speed of a person largely depends upon the genetic factors but like other components of fitness, speed can be improved with the help of training. Following methods can be used to develop speed:

I. Acceleration runs: This method is generally used to develop speed while attaining maximum speed from a static position. These types of runs are employed to increase speed especially attaining maximum speed from a stationary position. In these runs, an athlete is required to run a specified distance. The athlete starts from start line and tries to attain the maximum speed at the earliest and finish the specified distance at that speed. Such runs are repeated many number of times with suitable short intervals in between runs. Such runs are called acceleration runs.

The variables in the Acceleration runs are:

1. Distance: 50 to 60 metres

2. Speed: 90 %-100 %.

3. Number of runs: 6 to 12 times according to the ability of a runner.

4. Recovery period: 30 seconds to 2 minutes

5. Method of recovery: Active

Essential points to keep in mind while doing acceleration runs:

1. An athlete is required to run a distance of 50 to 60 metres. He should concentrate on running actions for first 30m and accelerate to maximum speed in the remaining distance.

2. An athlete should perform his training with 75% of his maximum speed and should move gradually towards 100%.

Precautions:

1. Proper warming up should be done to avoid muscle cramps.

2. Do not let fatigue set in while doing acceleration runs. To prevent fatigue, athlete should walk back slowly to starting position for recovery.

3. Training at maximum speed in early morning should be avoided.

4. In case of pain or cramps in muscles training should be stopped.

Advantages:

1. Reaction time of an athlete to the starter’s gun is reduced.

2. Capacity to accelerate quickly to maximum speed increases.

3. Capacity to adjust and balance body movements increases.

II. Pace runs: Another method to develop speed is Pace run. Pace runs mean running the whole distance at constant or uniform speed. It is observed that running at a constant pace by distributing energy evenly in races of 800m or more helps the runner to complete the distance in the shortest time. Therefore, in races of 800m or more, an athlete must run at a slower pace than his maximum otherwise he will burn himself out before the completion of the race. In a race of 800m a runner should run at a steady pace lower by 25% of his maximum speed with 10-20% increased distance. And in 1500m a runner should run at a pace of 33% slower than maximum speed with 10-20% increased distance. Pace training helps in increasing speed along with endurance. This training requires extensive practice because an athlete has to set his pace at an optimum speed for his event.

Following points should be taken into consideration for pace training:

1. Repetition of runs should be done at below maximum or near maximum speed with long recovery periods.

2. Jogging machine can be used if available.

Advantages:

1. Capacity to maintain maximum possible speed for a longer period increases.

2. Capacity to adjust and balance body movements increases.

37. Explain about the physiological changes which occur with ageing in a person.

Ans. Physiological changes which occur with ageing in all organ systems are as under:

1. Changes in Muscle Size and strength (Muscular Strength): Ageing takes its toll on the body and the muscles are not the exception. Men and women usually attain their highest strength levels between ages 20 and 40, the time when muscle cross-sectional area is largest. With age, muscles begin to shrink and lose some of their cross-sectional area. The number of muscle fibres decrease, and the ones that remain become smaller in size.

2. Changes in Metabolism and Body Composition: Over time, the body typically needs less energy, and metabolism slows down. Hormone changes in the aging body result in a shift to more body fat and less muscle mass. By the age 75, the percentage of body fat typically doubles compared with what it was during young adulthood.

3. Changes in bone density: Bones tend to become less dense due to advancement of age. Thus, bones become weaker and more likely to break. In women, loss of bone density speeds up after menopause. Bones become less dense partly because they contain less calcium which gives the bones strength. The amount of calcium decreases because the body absorbs less calcium from foods. Also the levels of vitamin D, which helps the body use calcium, decrease slightly. Certain bones are weakened more than others. Thus, the bones get less dense and weak.

4. Changes in Respiratory System (Pulmonary System): The muscles used in breathing, such as the diaphragm, tend to weaken. The number of air sacs (alveoli) and capillaries in the lungs decreases. Thus, slightly less oxygen is absorbed from air that is breathed in. The lungs become less elastic. These changes do not affect ordinary daily activities, but these changes may make exercising more difficult. Breathing at high altitudes may also be harder. The lungs become less able to fight infection.

5. Changes in Heart and Blood Circulation (Cardiovascular Function): The heart naturally becomes less efficient as it ages, and our heart has to work a little harder during activity than it did in the past. There is decrease in strength of cardiac muscles. There is a gradual decline in our energy or endurance from one decade to the next.

6. Changes in Brain and Nervous system: Starting in the third decade of life, the brain’s weight, the size of its nerve network, and its blood flow decrease. But the brain adapts to these changes, growing new patterns of nerve endings. Memory changes are a normal part of the aging process. It’s common to have less recall of recent memories and to be slower at remembering names and details.

7. Changes in Urinary system: With advancing age, the kidneys decline in size and function. As people age, the arteries supplying the kidneys narrow. Because the narrowed arteries may no longer supply enough blood for normal-sized kidneys, kidney size may decrease. They don’t clear wastes and some toxins from the blood as quickly and don’t help the body handle dehydration as well as in the past.

8. Changes in Flexibility: Joint motion becomes more restricted and flexibility decreases with age because of changes in tendons and ligaments. As the cushioning cartilage begins to break down from a lifetime of use, joints become inflamed and arthritic.