Whether you're squeezing in a 6 a.m. spin class before work or finding a spare 20 minutes before picking up the kids for school, our time in the gym is precious. Finding moments to prioritize our fitness and wellness is difficult in today's world — once you're there, you want to get in and out as efficiently as possible. So, it'd be understandable if you were skipping mobility.
Mobility can be completed pre- or post-workout, but it's much more likely that you're skipping the pre part. We stretch our hamstrings after a treadmill sesh or foam roll following leg day to avoid potential muscle soreness and stay on track to meet our goals, but it's just as, if not more, important to get your muscles ready to work before you actually start your exercises.
Mobility training is only going to make your workouts better. It literally warms up your muscles before exerting them, helps prevent injury and gives you more — you guessed it — mobility for greater range of motion through exercises. Better form = better results!
If you have no idea where to start with mobility training, here are five examples of routines to get you loose and limber before hitting the squat rack.
2. Back Mobility
I will do anything this trainer does to have a back that looks like hers!!!
3. Hip Flexor Mobility
Yogis and strength trainers alike can benefit from hip openers! Deeper squats and lunges are going to feel sooo good on your hamstrings.
4. Shoulder / Spine Mobility
You'd be surprised just how many everyday activities are dependent on healthy and flexibile backs and shoulders (*cries in rotator cuff injury*). To that end, even if you're not a gym rat, keep that upper body in check!
5. Full Body Mobility
If you don't have any set fitness goals and just want to feel more ~moveable~ in general, add a full-body regimen like this to your morning routine.
6. Calisthenics Mobility
Calisthenics basically is mobility – it's about using your bodyweight to work on flexibility, coordination and strength. Being comfortable in all the ways your body moves is going to make you feel mobile as heck!