Is mobility the same as flexibility?
Mobility refers to our ability to move freely without stress on the body. Our flexibility is dependent on the range of motion of our muscles. The two are not the same, but are not mutually exclusive. Good mobility can assist your flexibility and vice versa.
Mobility training can improve the range of motion of our joints and muscles. It can assist in improving our posture. Mobility training can alleviate ‘everyday’ aches and pains as well as improve our body awareness.
Is it ever too late to start mobility training?
It’s never too late to start mobility training. Your mobility is always something you can improve. In terms of results, this will initially be something you feel rather than see. You might feel a little less stiff after one or two sessions – but the key is to be consistent with your mobility training. Over time you should see an increase in your range of motion and perhaps improvement in your performance in other activities.
Mobility training can be used as part of your warm-up for your workout, or you can use it within your training in the form of active rest. The exercises can also be used to recover from other forms of training.
Can proper mobility training help with other ailments?
Absolutely. Conditions such as lower back or knee pain, plus some forms of arthritis, can benefit from mobility exercises. However, it’s important to remember that they should always be performed within a pain free range.