As we age, it's easy to fall into the trap of accepting decreased mobility and flexibility as an inevitable consequence. However, contrary to popular belief, these declines aren't solely dictated by age itself.
Rather, they often result from lifestyle factors and lack of attention to proper movement and flexibility training.
UNDERSTANDING IMPROVING YOUR MOBILITY AND FLEXIBILITY AFTER 50
Mobility refers to the ability to move freely and easily, while flexibility is the range of motion in a joint or group of joints. Both aspects play integral roles in maintaining overall physical function and well-being, regardless of age. However, as we grow older, our bodies tend to stiffen, joints become less flexible, and movement patterns may become restricted. This decline in mobility and flexibility can lead to increased risk of injuries, diminished quality of life, and reduced independence.
THE TRUTH BEHIND AGE-RELATED DECLINES
While it's true that aging can contribute to changes in muscle mass, bone density, and joint health, many of the limitations we face as we age are actually the result of disuse and sedentary lifestyles rather than age itself. In fact, research has shown that regular physical activity and targeted mobility exercises can significantly mitigate these declines, regardless of age.
IMPORTANCE OF IMPROVING MOBILITY AND FLEXIBILITY AFTER 50:
● Injury Prevention
● Improved Quality of Life
● Enhanced Performance
● Alleviation of Pain and Discomfort
● Longevity and Vitality
While age may bring certain physical changes, it doesn't have to equate to a decline in mobility and flexibility.
By adopting a proactive approach to movement and incorporating targeted exercises into your routine, you can defy the odds and maintain optimal mobility and flexibility well into your later years.
Remember, it's never too late to start prioritizing your physical health and unlocking the fountain of youth by improving your flexibility and mobility after 50.
If getting healthy, strong, lean and fit is something that you really want, take the action to reach out to me to get started on a fitness plan that will give you the opportunity to do what’s hard now, to achieve the body that you really want.
Are You Ready to Get Started Building A More Flexible You?
ROLL BEFORE
With a foam roller, you work to gently stretch your muscles before working them out, and better yet, you stretch them out safely. Essentially a massage for your muscles, foam rolling helps your muscles relax and stretch. This, in turn, allows your entire muscle to be worked out in the gym afterward and prevents an already tight muscle from growing tighter through your exercise routine. Once you knock out a little foam rolling, the time is right for a round of body-weight exercises or light activity before going full force.
GO ALL THE WAY
As you exercise, you can help your flexibility by working throughout your entire range of motion. Initially, you may have a harder time squatting your full range of motion, but sticking with it will allow your muscles to work all the way and will lead to their being more flexible.
STRETCH AFTERWARDS
Your routine winds down, and your muscles feel tight and want to stay that way. Folks who are new to working out often enjoy the feeling. It lets them know their body has worked hard, and so they allow the tightness to remain as they leave the gym and return to their daily routines.
However, this is when your stretches become most important. By taking 10 minutes to stretch slowly, you can take a huge step toward your overall flexibility.
TAKE IT SLOW
When stretching for increased flexibility, you may be tempted to push it as far as you can. But don’t give in. Instead, you should relax and take the slow and easy-going path to flexibility. Going too far too fast will actually have the opposite result that you want, as your body will have to repair itself from small injuries that occur from stretching and won’t want to stretch further in the future. Instead, take your time and allow your body to ease into stretches.
Call or email me today to get started on a challenging and consistent exercise plan to increase flexibility as well as reduce your body fat and increase your energy levels.
TRAIN SMARTER
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