Unlock Your Movement: Why Mobility Matters & How to Improve It
By Matt Wells
Ever feel stiff, achy, or restricted in your movement? Whether you’re someone who works at a desk all day, loves keeping active in your free time, or just wants to move without discomfort, mobility is the key to unlocking better movement, reducing pain, and preventing injuries.
But here’s the thing—mobility isn’t just about stretching. It’s about building strength and control through a full range of motion. That’s exactly what we explored in our “Let’s Get Mobile” workshop—a session focused on improving how you move, feel, and perform.
Here are some of the key takeaways from the workshop, whether you attended or are just curious:
Mobility vs. Flexibility – What’s the Difference?
A lot of people think mobility and flexibility are the same, but they’re actually quite different:
🔹 Mobility = The ability to move actively and efficiently through a full range of motion.
🔹 Flexibility = The passive length of a muscle when stretched.
Think of it this way: Flexibility is being able to touch your toes, but mobility is being able to squat deeply while staying strong and stable. The better your mobility, the better you move in everyday life, workouts, and sports.
The Common Stiff Spots & How to Fix Them
Most of us have tight or restricted areas that limit movement and cause discomfort. Here are some key mobility hotspots and simple ways to improve them:
✅ Hips
Tight hips can lead to lower back pain and poor posture. Here are a few exercises to open them up:
✅ Thoracic Spine (Upper Back)
If you’re sitting at a desk all day, this area is likely stiff. Here are a couple of great exercises to improve your thoracic mobility:
✅ Shoulders
Shoulders play a big role in your overall mobility and strength. Tight shoulders can affect everything from overhead movements to daily tasks. Here are some exercises to help increase shoulder mobility and stability:
✅ Ankles
Limited ankle mobility can affect squats and lunges. Try this ankle glider exercise to get your ankles moving better.
How to Improve Your Mobility Daily
Improving mobility doesn’t require hours in the gym—just a few simple habits can make a huge difference:
🔥 Move more, sit less – Our bodies are designed to move! Stand, stretch, and walk throughout the day.
🔥 Incorporate mobility drills – Just 5-10 minutes before workouts or in the morning can help keep you loose and pain-free.
🔥 Focus on control – Don’t just stretch—move with intention. Strengthening your muscles through a full range of motion is key to long-term mobility.
Final Thoughts
Mobility is one of the most overlooked aspects of fitness, but it’s also one of the most important. When you prioritize mobility, you’ll feel stronger, move better, and reduce your risk of injuries.
So why not start today? Try a few of these drills, add movement to your daily routine, and feel the difference. Your body will thank you! 💪🚀
