importance of mobility

One of the biggest mistakes people make in the gym is focusing solely on the aesthetic part of fitness. While building a great body is the main fitness goal, it should also come with developing strong overall health and mobility. During the early years, your body can get away with a quick-recovery attitude that comes from the natural flexibility you once had as a child. However, as your body ages, even the most basic lunges and squats can become difficult - which is where mobility training comes in.

Mobility is the ability to move the body freely without putting stress on the muscles. As the effects of aging take a toll on the body, it is important to stay mobile and flexible. Mobility will help improve the range of motions of the muscles and joints. It will also assist in performance and relieve those everyday aches and pains from poor posture.

Mobility is vital for strength training and your overall quality of life. With proper training, mobility exercises will keep your body safe during the most intense workouts. This means you will gain the most benefits of physical training without the pain caused by difficult movements. There are several factors that weaken mobility, such as aging, injuries, and living a sedentary lifestyle. As the body’s mobility decreases, simple activities such as standing up or kneeling can become painful and often intolerable to manage.

Start Your Fitness Strong

Before any workout, it is important to warm up the body. To start your warm-up, follow a regular routine of light cardio, such as jogging or walking, jumping rope, talking the stairs, and stretching. One of the best stretches for tight hip flexors is the kneeling stretch. This movement allows you to stretch the hip muscles and build mobility of your hips. To get started, rest on one knee and place your hands on your raised knee. Slowly lunge your body forward and hold this position for 10 seconds. Repeat the stretch five times per leg.

Maintain Healthy Habits to Improve Mobility

You might be surprised to learn that what you eat will affect your mobility. The nutrients in your diet help you build strong bones, fuel muscles, repair tissue, and keep the brain active. What you consume also influences your risks of developing chronic diseases such as osteoporosis, heart disease, and diabetes. In addition to maintaining a healthy diet, balance is critical in gaining muscle and losing weight. Living a balanced lifestyle will lead to better digestion, quality relationships, and a positive state of mind.

Furthermore, mobility training is vital for physical improvement. Even if you are limited for time, never skip your warm-up stretches or cool-down routine. Skipping these steps will cause your body to increase muscle tightness, soreness, and hinder progress. Bottom line: Mobility training is a vital step in your training routine. Make sure to follow through and keep your body stretch for ideal results.