Mobility VS Flexibility
Have you ever wondered what the difference is between mobility and flexibility?
We have all been there, attempting to do a split and getting down to the point where you feel that burning stretch that sends you into panic mode. Maybe you tried it as kid, or maybe it was last weekend at your cousins wedding? Either way, I can guarantee you have experienced a flexibility limitation at some point in your life.
The fact is that Flexibility and mobility are not the same! Your body needs a bit of both to function correctly and knowing the difference could help you unlock some serious body potential.
To put it simply, flexibility is the ability for a tissue to stretch. Mobility is the ability to actively or passively achieve a range of motion. One way of looking at this is that flexibility is your passive range of motion whereas mobility is your active range of motion.
Unless you’re hypermobile, flexibility won’t come naturally without practice. Flexibility techniques commonly used in yoga, dance, gymnastics, etc focus on stretching the soft tissue of your body that is pliable enough to stretch. However, most human beings don’t typically live in motion nor devote countless hours to stretching every day. We are constantly sitting at our jobs, in our cars on our couches, all of which causes this soft tissue to form into knots leading to restricted muscles and limited range of motion.
Now this is where mobility matters. You can’t stretch through a restricted muscle and attempting to could cause you to pull or tear that tightened muscle.
Mobility training uses self-myofascial release techniques that focus on releasing restricted muscle. These techniques usually involve the use of a mobility tool, such as a lacrosse ball or foam roller. If you are not utilizing mobility techniques in addition to flexibility training, you are preventing yourself from dramatically improving your range of motion, your overall strength, and SO much more.
Start training and start seeing the results you deserve!
Made For Me Fitness is online personal training made just for you. Unlike other fitness programs, every workout and meal plan is completely tailored to your goals, your body, and your schedule. Sign up today!