Remember that viral challenge from last year? The one where you stand up, cross your arms over your body, cross one leg in front of the other, sit cross-legged on the floor, get on your knees with toes behind you, pop backwards into a deep squat, and then stand up? It’s quite challenging, and many people struggle to complete it. However, it highlights the importance of mobility in daily life.
Poor mobility can significantly impact your quality of life, making simple tasks like personal hygiene and household chores difficult and painful. While it may not be a direct cause of death, it is associated with early mortality.
A study conducted by Brazilian researchers from 2002 to 2011 followed 2,000 individuals aged 51 to 80 who participated in a sitting-rising test without using hands, knees, or arms. Those who couldn’t perform this test were more likely to experience earlier mortality, emphasizing the seriousness of mobility, especially as you age.
Mobility coach Roger Frampton emphasizes the significance of maintaining mobility throughout life. He believes that the key to preserving mobility is to continuously work on it. By gradually expanding your range of movement through consistent practice, you can enhance your flexibility without compromising strength.
Frampton describes mobility as “usable flexibility,” emphasizing the importance of balance between flexibility and strength. By focusing on improving both aspects simultaneously, you can achieve optimal mobility and functionality.
To enhance mobility, you can break down exercises and focus on specific elements. For instance, practicing sitting cross-legged against a wall can help improve posture and flexibility. Similarly, performing wall sits and balance exercises can strengthen muscles essential for mobility.
Maintaining mobility is a lifelong commitment. Just like brushing your teeth, it’s a routine that should be integrated into your daily life. By dedicating a few minutes each day to mobility exercises, you can improve your overall quality of life and functional independence.