In returning to explore the components of fitness again, let's look next at mobility. The tip for July focused on stretching daily to increase flexibility, and mobility is a very similar and yet distinct component of fitness. Whereas flexibility is the ability to move in a full range of motion, mobility is defined as the ability to move or be moved freely and easily. So we see that we want to improve mobility right along with flexibility because it is mobility that enables our movements to be free of pain or limitation.
Many additional structures define how good a person's mobility is. It is not only the muscles stretching over a joint but also how far the joint moves within the joint capsule. Mobility also takes into account the component of motor control within the nervous system, i.e. how well we're able to engage and coordinate our minds with our muscles.
To improve mobility, try warming up for exercise by moving your joints through their full, pain-free range of motion. For example, start with your ankles by alternating between pointing your toes and pulling them back. Repeat this for a total of five repetitions in each direction. Apply this technique to each joint until you've warmed up the entire body. By making this a consistent part of your fitness routine, you'll soon see an improvement in your overall mobility!
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