Introduction –
Mobility and flexibility are two distinct concepts but are often used interchangeably. While mobility refers to the range of motion at the joint, flexibility is the ability of the muscle to lengthen and stretch without being damaged. Generally, it is advised that mobility drills need to be performed at the beginning of the session and flexibility should be targeted in the cool down sessions. Mobility drills help in opening the joints and make the movements in the workout easier and efficient. Static stretching helps in improving the flexibility and aids in muscle recovery after an intense workout session.
Why is it important for athletes to work on mobility and flexibility?
Mobility and flexibility are critical components of an athlete’s performance, health, and overall well-being. Incorporating mobility and flexibility exercises into an athlete’s training routine can improve their performance, reduce the risk of injury, and speed up recovery, making it essential for all athletes to prioritize these components in their training. Improvement in mobility and flexibility of the athletes can help them train better in turn improving the performance on field. For example, good mobility at the hip joint and ankle joint will help them squat better which is a common exercise performed by the majority of athletes across sports.
Why should general population consider focusing on mobility and flexibility?
Reduces the risk of injury:
Good mobility and flexibility can help reduce the risk of a variety of injuries, including strains, sprains, and even fractures. When your muscles and joints are flexible, you’re less likely to overstretch or tear a muscle or ligament during physical activity. This is particularly important as we age since we tend to lose flexibility over time. By maintaining good mobility and flexibility, you can keep doing the things you love without worrying about getting hurt.
Improves posture and balance:
Good posture is important for a variety of reasons, including reducing strain on your joints, preventing back pain, and helping you breathe more easily. Poor posture can also affect your balance, making it harder to walk or stand without falling. Regular stretching and mobility exercises can help improve your posture by stretching tight muscles. This can also improve your balance by increasing your stability and coordination.
Enhances athletic performance:
If you’re an amateur athlete or just someone who enjoys physical activity, good mobility and flexibility can help you perform better. When your muscles and joints are flexible, you can move more easily and with greater range of motion. This can help you achieve better form and technique, leading to increased power, speed, and agility. Additionally, when your muscles are less stiff, you’re less likely to experience muscle soreness or fatigue after any kind of physical activity.
Reduces pain and stiffness:
Tight muscles and joints can cause pain and stiffness, particularly in the back, neck, and hips. This can be especially challenging as we age when arthritis and other conditions can contribute to stiffness and pain. Regular stretching and mobility exercises can help reduce pain by improving blood flow and releasing tension in the muscles. Additionally, when your muscles and joints are more flexible, you’re less likely to experience pain or stiffness after sitting or standing for long periods of time.
Promotes relaxation and stress relief:
Finally, stretching and mobility exercises can be a great way to relax and relieve stress. When you’re feeling tense or anxious, taking a few minutes to stretch can help you feel more relaxed and centered. Additionally, stretching can help promote better sleep by reducing muscle tension and increasing relaxation. By incorporating stretching and mobility exercises into your daily routine, you can help promote overall physical and mental well-being.
Conclusion –
It is very important to not ignore these aspects as it can lead to physiological issues like muscle stiffness, limited range of motion and improper posture. These issues can prove as a hindrance for general population in performing routine activities. Hence, to make your daily life efficient and stress free, spending 10 to 15 minutes in a day focussing on these two aspects is the right way to go about it.
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