6 Tips for Improving Flexibility and Mobility
6 Tips for Improving Flexibility and Mobility
Staying active is a daily, lifelong pursuit. An important part of this journey is practicing flexibility and mobility. Flexibility is the ability of muscles to lengthen passively (without engagement) through motion. Mobility, on the other hand, is the ability of joints to move actively through motion. Both flexibility and mobility impact daily activities such as climbing stairs, carrying groceries, bending over and sitting. Explore these steps to improving flexibility and mobility for a healthy, happy body.
Practice flexibility and mobility consistently. Set a relevant SMART goal and stick with it.
Perform active stretching before exercise and static stretching after. Active or dynamic stretching is gently moving through a range of motion to increase blood flow and warm up muscles, while static stretching is stretching a muscle to its furthest point and holding that position for a period of time.
Take every opportunity to move. Whether it is a workout video at home, playing basketball or walking outside, every minute spent being active matters. Bonus if the activity is fun!
Incorporate a range of exercise disciplines into a routine. Strength training can increase flexibility and balance required for functional movements, while barre, Pilates and yoga are known for improving both flexibility and strength.
Improve posture. Check in about body alignment throughout the day. Change position from sitting to standing as often as possible. Engage in stretches that support better posture.
Seek professional support from a doctor or physical therapist for diagnosing and treating injuries. It is not advised to do exercises or activities that aggravate muscle or joint pain related to an injury.
