30/10/2023
Flexibility vs Mobility
Although the terms flexibility and mobility are often used interchangeably, they mean different things.
Flexibility has to do with the extensibility of the muscles and other soft tissues that cross a joint. Flexibility is a matter of distance - how far can the body move and stay in a static state.
Mobility has to do with how the joint itself and its associated structures move. Mobility is a matter of neurological control and strength - how well can the body actively move itself within that range of motion.
There is a common misconception that to be ‘good’ at yoga, you must be ‘flexible’ in the first instance.
The most incredible thing about yoga, is that anyone can do it. You do not need to be ‘flexible’.
It is mobility, not flexibility, that guides you towards ease in your physical practice. It is mobility that can decrease the risk of injury and increase joint health and resiliency.
Coming from a fitness background, I naturally gravitate towards alignment, stability, and mobility and teaching the ‘why’ behind the pose.
Next time you step on to your mat, consider your body’s mobility rather than focussing solely on flexibility.
Explore the way you enter and exit each pose.
Be curious about how it feels in the space between.
If you want to incorporate more mobility training into your week, maybe yoga is a great place to start.