Mobility As An Essential Element of an Endurance Training Program

MOBILITY FOR ENDURANCE ATHLETES Mobility refers to your ability to move your body and limbs freely and painlessly through your desired movement. WHY MOBILITY MATTERS Using pressure point tricks on a regular basis can relieve pain and immobility. It is not necessarily all about flexibility, stretching, and range of motion. WHAT LIMITED MOBILITY FEELS LIKE Often, endurance athletes will experience muscle tightness, joint restriction, faulty movement patterns, overworking of muscles, and loss of movement efficiency and economy. This happens because training occurs in a repetitive motion pattern. HOW NOT TO INCREASE MOBILITY Static stretching really doesn't help much with mobility, and worse yet, when mixing it up with a workout or race, it can significantly hinder performance potential. SO HOW DO YOU INCREASE MOBILITY? Dynamic stretching incorporates posture control, stability, balance, and even ballistic and explosive movements such as swings and kicks. Try: Leg Swings, Frankenstein Walk, Walking Lunges, Bent Torso Twist, and Deep Body Weight Squats. 5 DEEP TISSUE WORK "Deep tissue work" refers to any type of stimulation that works deep into your muscles and connective tissue. Examples: Rolfing, AMIT, MAT, Graston Technique, Trigger Point Therapy, Deep Tissue Sports Massage. More Mobility Strategies: TRACTION Traction is the application of a force to the body in a way that separates and elongates the tissues surrounding that joint. Applied by chiropractors, physical therapists, or yourself (Try Monster Bands). FOOD FOR MOBILITY Eat: Bone Broth, Ginger, Fish, and Antioxidants. Also, try adding gelatin powder to smoothies. Focus on Vitamins B & C found in dark fruits and vegetables such as blueberries and purple cabbage. SUPPLEMENT STRATEGIES FOR INCREASING MOBILITY • Proteolytic Enzymes: Found in papaya, pineapple, and meat, but works better in concentrated sources. •Glucosamine-Chondroitin: Works best when taken for 3 months or longer. Learn more about mobility at http://bit.ly/l7Zc3Di O bengreenfieldfitness.com