Nourish Magazine

Flexibility refers to the ability of muscles to lengthen, while mobility is the ability of joints to move along the entire range of motion without any restriction or discomfort. What is the difference between flexibility and mobility?

Yoga benefits both muscles and joints, so it is better performed after a workout or even the next day. Some yoga styles like AcroYoga will require more mobility and flexibility than others. How yoga helps improve mobility and flexibility

Here are recommended yoga poses:

Thus, pre-workout should focus on mobility, while post-workout should prioritize flexibility.

Pre-workout exercises to improve mobility

To increase mobility and facilitate the full movement of joints, you can perform several exercises using your body weight. Before a workout, mobilize & prepare these four key areas by maximizing the movement angles with fluid motions. • Ankles • Hips • Spine • Shoulders

Pigeon Pose, a hip opener, stretches & lengthens ligaments, muscles, and IT band. It relieves sciatic nerve tension & targets psoas, groins, and adductor muscles.

Post-workout stretches to promote flexibility

You can perform dynamic or static stretching after a workout to improve flexibility. The latter takes longer to stretch the muscles. Avoid static stretching before exercise to prevent muscle injuries. Doing it post-workout relieves muscle tension and reduces soreness.

Another pose is Garland Pose. Garland pose helps to stretch the hips and inner thighs and lengthen the spine. Doing this exercise also helps your pelvic and hip joints. The connection between mobility and flexibility Mobility and flexibility work together to improve athletic performance. Therefore, include both in your training routine. Yoga is an excellent addition after your workout or the next day. Also, remember to address any closed or tense points you might notice in your body, to reduce the risk of injury

Source Article: Excerpts from https://iamherbalifenutrition.com/fitness/yoga-mobility-flexibility/ Article written by: Emine Basarir, Personal Trainer and Member, Fitness Advisory Board

Images are for representation purpose only. Before embarking on any physical activity, please consult your physician.

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