Cards on the table, should you be increasing flexibility OR improving mobility, are they the same and what's the difference?
Read below to find out.
A trendy tag word in the fitness industry and one commonly associated with being bendy, but what's the difference? No mobility scooters in sight, instead we are discussing ROM or range of motion.
Flexibility means increasing the END position of a movement, for example reaching down and touching toes. To improve the chances of reaching the feet improved flexibility of the hamstrings is an advantage. Simple stretches that lengthen the back of the legs support this goal and requires no strength.
Mobility refers to tasks like being able to perform a deep squat, raise both arms over head or get up from lying down on the floor using no hands. This requires co-ordination, skill and sometimes strength.
Getting up and down off the floor with no hands could help improve your mobility and flexibility all through life, touching your toes to do your laces can help but you can always bed your knee.
Mobility would be the personal preferred choice at Unite, as it it has a a higher carry over functional purpose in our day to day life. However hypertonic and tight muscles can perform poorly if they are restricted in range, think massive body builder unable to fully extend his arm out to reach because of tight biceps.
Are you bendy or a bit more mechanical? Neither is good or bad but each have their limitations and advantages, the search is to find balance and always consider how it effects your life.
Comentarios