Mobility: Why is it important?

November 15, 2024 • By Iris

Let’s talk about something we don’t really think about until we start to lose it: Mobility. Whether it’s walking, bending, stretching, or simply getting out of bed without groaning like a rusty door, mobility plays a huge role in how we live, work, and enjoy life. And don’t we all want to stay active and independent for as long as possible?

What is Mobility, then?

Mobility is our ability to move freely. More specifically: A joint’s ability to move freely through its full range of motion. Do we feel stiff and restricted? Or light and capable? Maintaining good mobility means having the strength, flexibility, and balance to perform everyday activities. It’s one of the keys to a longer healthy life-span.

Why is Mobility important?

  1. Mobility provides you freedom
    Imagine struggling to climb stairs, carry groceries, or play with your kids, doggie, turtle.. Mobility is what allows us to live independently and stay active throughout our years. (I like to envision myself as that 98-year-old gymnast lady swinging through life.)
  2. Mobility keeps you young
    Movement isn’t just about muscles and joints; it’s also great for your heart, brain, and mood. Regular mobility exercises can slow down the aging process and keep you feeling youthful. It’s an excellent stress reliever.
  3. Mobility prevents injuries, aches, pains and irritation
    A lack of movement often leads to stiffness, poor posture, and even injuries. Staying mobile helps prevent those “oops” moments, like twisting your ankle or straining your back. And really, avoiding unnecessary pain is worth every second you invest in moving.

How can you improve your own Mobility?

The good news is, you don’t have to be a fitness fanatic to improve your mobility. Anyone can do it. Start small and stay consistent:

  1. Start small, build up: You don’t need to start big. 5–10 minutes of stretches, 2-3 times a week, can already make a difference. Start with a set of 3-4 stretches that you stick with. Join a yoga class for inspiration, check Youtube for countless free routines, or come train with us for personalised sessions just right for your body.
  2. Strengthen your Core: A strong core supports better posture and balance. Try plank-holds, bird-dogs and reverse crunches.
  3. Walk: Walking is underrated but incredibly effective. Leave your phone home and just walk.
  4. Balance exercises: Start with exercises such as standing on one leg for 30 seconds, or standing on a bosu ball. More advanced? Try single leg deadlifts, pistol squats and stability ball planks.
  5. Dynamic over passive: Unlike passive stretches, where you hold a position in stillness, or a prop is holding you, dynamic stretches involve active movements like leg swings, cat-cow, hip rotations.. This means you are also building the skill and strength necessary to actively perform this movement on your own. Dynamic movements also warm up your muscles, increase blood flow, and prepare your body for action, reducing the risk of injury.

Taking care of your mobility is truly an act of self-love. It’s not just about adding years to your life but adding life to your years! So keep moving, keep stretching, and keep doing the (little) things that will help you live life to its fullest <3