Mobility exercises – Why you should include them into your routine
When it comes to exercise, most people tend to focus on strength training and cardio. Sure, this approach is fine and will bring you results. However, mobility exercises are often overlooked, despite being an essential component of overall fitness. Mobility exercises involve movements that improve flexibility, range of motion, and joint health. These exercises can be incorporated into any workout routine, and their benefits extend even beyond physical fitness:
- Improved Flexibility and Range of Motion
Mobility exercises involve movements that help stretch and loosen tight muscles and joints. Over time, this can lead to improved flexibility and range of motion, which is essential for preventing injury and improving performance in other exercises. Improved flexibility can also make daily activities easier and more comfortable, such as reaching for objects or bending down to pick something up;
- Reduced Risk of Injury
Mobility exercises help to strengthen the muscles surrounding joints and improve their range of motion. This, in turn, can reduce the risk of injury during other exercises or daily activities. For example, improved mobility in the hips can reduce the risk of lower back pain, while improved shoulder mobility can reduce the risk of rotator cuff injuries;
- Improved Posture
Poor posture is a common problem in today’s society, and it can lead to a host of health issues. Mobility exercises can help improve posture by stretching tight muscles and strengthening weak ones. This can lead to improved alignment and reduced strain on the muscles and joints, which can reduce the risk of pain and injury;
- Improved Athletic Performance
Mobility exercises can also improve athletic performance by helping with flexibility, range of motion and joint health. For example, improved hip mobility can lead to better squatting form and deeper squats, while improved shoulder mobility can lead to better overhead pressing and rowing mechanics;
- Reduced Stress
Mobility exercises can be a great way to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Many mobility exercises involve deep breathing and slow, controlled movements, which can help calm the mind and reduce stress levels. In addition, improved flexibility and range of motion can reduce the physical tension and discomfort that often accompanies stress.
But how can you actually incorporate mobility exercises into your workout routine?
Incorporating mobility exercises into your workout routine doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. A simple 10–15-minute mobility routine before or after your regular workout can be enough to reap the benefits. Some effective mobility exercises include:
- Foam rolling to release tension in tight muscles;
- Dynamic stretches to warm up the muscles and improve range of motion;
- Joint mobilizations to improve activation, joint health and range of motion;
- Yoga poses to stretch and strengthen the muscles.
In conclusion, mobility exercises are an essential component of overall fitness that should not be overlooked. The benefits of improved flexibility, reduced risk of injury, improved posture, improved athletic performance and reduced stress are too significant to be ignored. By incorporating mobility exercises into your workout routine, you can improve your overall health and wellbeing, achieving better results in the process.
