MOBILITY

Is good mobility important for working out?

The answer is, YES. Good mobility will change the way you move, look, and feel. It will prevent injuries and make you stronger and more athletic in the long run.

What if I don’t have good mobility?

Mobility and muscle tightness can be improved overtime with stretching and flexibility exercises. You just need to be consistent and patient.

Here are two ways you could start your journey:

• Dedicate an hour or two to doing Yoga and stretching exercises;

There are plenty of Yoga and Pilates resources out there. From books to YouTube videos, and local class studios in your neighborhood, you have lots of options. Not only do these classes increase your flexibility, but they will also promote relaxation and mindfulness.

• Pair it up with your workout routine as pre-workout warm up (priming) and post-workout cool down mobility drills.

For your pre-workout:

Start with dynamic movements that specifically prep your muscles for the movement patterns you’ll be performing. This will allow you to have a better range of motion and reconnect with the muscles that you have trouble connecting with, resulting in optimal performance. The more range of motion you have, the more muscles you will engage/damage. And more muscle damage, means more muscle growth.

Example: Inchworm and World’s greatest Stretch.

For your post-workout:

Static stretches are great. Make sure to do the exercises in a slow and controlled way. Focus on postural awareness and body alignment. Hold every stretch for 30-60 seconds, 2-4 rounds. This will not only help improve your range of motion, but it can also speed up the recovery process and prevent muscle soreness.

Example: Pigeon Pose and Downward Dog.