How many times have you heard or used the words “flexibility” and “mobility” interchangeably? The thought has always been if you stretch enough, you will stay limber, mobile, and ready to move- Is it really that simple?
When we take a deeper look, they are not the same thing – the truth is you can be super flexible but actually struggle with performing basic movements. To better understand this, you must first have to understand their differences.
Flexibility is the ability of a muscle to temporarily stretch when needed. Mobility is the ability of a joint to actively move through its intended range of motion. Muscles can have good flexibility but be overactive because they are trying to make up for a lack of stability elsewhere. Muscles that cross multiple joints tend to help us move. When the stabilizers aren’t doing their job – mover muscles try to stabilize. But because they cross multiple joints, they end up limiting joint movement.
How Do You Improve Mobility
Absolutely continue to perform stretching exercises. But to improve mobility, you must also train your stabilizing muscles, perform exercises that take your joints through a full range of motion, and consciously work to improve your posture. My fascial release is a great way to help promote mobility as well.
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