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SEPT. 19th, 2024

BEING FLEXIBLE VS. BEING MOBILE

by: STEPHEN A. MURPHY

 

Today, we're diving into a topic that's often misunderstood but incredibly important for anyone who values their fitness and overall well-being: stretching versus mobility. You might think these terms are interchangeable, but they actually serve different purposes in your workout routine. In this blog, we'll break down the differences, benefits, and how you can incorporate both to enhance your performance and prevent injuries. So, let's get started and unlock your body's full potential!


What is Flexibility and Mobility?
Flexibility is the muscles, tendons, and ligaments ability to stretch and lengthen. For example, bending and touching your toes would be a test of your flexibility.
Mobility is the body’s ability to move through its full range of motion. An example of mobility would be sitting in a chair and then standing.

Aren’t They The Same?
Although flexibility and mobility are often used interchangeably, they are not the same thing. They are also always working together to create and control motion, so it can be difficult to separate them out.

 

How Do They Differ?
While flexibility and mobility sound similar, they are inherently different in terms of movement. Flexibility refers to the ability of a muscle to lengthen during movement. It is passive, and stretching is one of the best ways to determine flexibility. Your body type and/or genetics can also determine how flexible you are - there is a reason some people are better at gymnastics than others. The toe-touching example applies here - if you can touch your toes, do a split, or do a backbend, your muscle tissue can stretch the distance required. But mobility is entirely different, it is the ability to control movements through the entire range of a motion. Think about squatting as an example - to have full mobility squatting, your hips and knees have to bend at the proper angles, and your core must work in sync to control your trunk position. Mobility includes a facet of each of these bodily processes; if one is missing, you will not be able to move as effectively, increasing your risk of injury. 

Which Is More Beneficial?
When it comes to stretching vs mobility there is not one that is more beneficial than the other. BOTH stretching and mobility should be incorporated into any training routine.

Incorporating stretching and mobility exercises into your daily routine can lead to significant improvements in flexibility, injury prevention, and overall physical performance. 

 

Whether you're an athlete or someone looking to enhance your everyday movements, these practices are essential for maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. Remember, consistency is key – make stretching and mobility a regular part of your fitness regimen, and you'll soon notice the positive impact that both have on not only your workouts but your overall daily life!

 

To learn more, check out this video on Instagram! 
 

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