Mobility is an important thing, folks. Being able to move freely without stiffness or discomfort is definitely something a lot of us took for granted when we were younger. If I would have known how easy it is to lose mobility as we age, I’d have done more backyard gymnastics as a kid!
Fortunately, you can take some steps to get your movement back. Try these four easy mobility exercises that you can do right from your own home without pricey equipment.
Use balls to release tension
Roll an area of tension around on a ball with some slight pressure until that tension releases. It works like a charm, and it’s that simple. Although you can buy branded balls intended just for this purpose, many people find that tennis, lacrosse and even those bouncy balls for kids work just fine for this.
Try a foam roller
A foam roller is a little more extreme, so to speak, than a ball, and it is useful for areas like your back. You’ll find both hard and soft foam rollers available for this purpose, so try both and decide which fits your needs best. Some people discover that the hard rollers are just too hard and uncomfortable, while others find softer ones too pliable to handle the pressure from rolling a particularly tense area.
Get ready to use resistance bands
You can use resistance bands to apply some traction to your joint to open it up, and these are also great for adding some resistance to your typical exercises. You’ll find a wide variety of bands out there on the market, so as with the foam roller, there may be some trial and error here.
Test a trigger point massager
These inexpensive sticks can really do great work on your trigger points and help you relieve tension in many common trouble spots, including your back and neck. The key with this type of massager is to get the movements for use correct, so be sure to follow any guide or instructions that comes with your stick.
In addition to the exercises above, do not forget to watch your posture. Poor posture can create a lot of tension, especially in your shoulders, neck and arms. If you find yourself slouching often, it may be time to add some posture-improving exercises into your normal daily routine.
