Because we’re all too busy worrying about our weight or trying to build slabs of muscle, it’s easy to forget there are other components of fitness equally as important – if not, more so.

Flexibility and mobility are two terms often used interchangeably but describe two different things.

They are both important for serious athletes looking to improve performance, and the general population wanting to remain niggle-free.

Flexibility refers to the length of a muscle and is a component of mobility, and can be improved with simple stretching techniques.

Mobility is all about being able to perform everyday movement patterns without restriction.

It concerns the joints and their ranges of motion, and encompasses any other structure or process within the body that may restrict movement.

Core strength, balance and co-ordination also play a part in functional movement patterns.

While stretching is often static, mobility drills are performed with movement and can be programmed into dedicated sessions or during regular workout routines.

With a little patience, vast improvements in joint ranges of motion are possible. Foam rolling, a form of self-massage, can improve mobility by relieving tightness and breaking up knots within muscle tissue, which can be painful and limiting.

Throwing in a few stretches at the end of a workout, a common cool-down protocol with casual gym-goers, may help a little with muscle tightness but won’t solve any long-term mobility issues.

If you struggle with restricted movement or have pain when performing certain tasks, speak with your doctor. They may not have you doing the splits, but can refer you on to a specialist for an assessment.

Ronny Terry is a Swindon-based personal trainer and fitness writer.
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