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Writer's pictureDr. W Zach Smith

Over 50? 5 Exercises to Do In the Morning for Mobility

1. Cat To Child's Pose Stretch:


This exercise is designed for the muscles of your back, which can become stiff due to excessive sitting or incorrect posture. The Cat to Child's Pose Stretch involves transitioning between two yoga positions - the cat pose and the child's pose. In the cat pose, start on your hands and knees, then round your back towards the ceiling, like a cat stretching its back. This allows for a deep stretch in your spine and upper back. Then, transition into the child's pose by sitting back on your heels and stretching your arms out in front of you, which will stretch your lower back and shoulders. This exercise can also be rhythmically repeated, moving between the two poses with each breath, for an additional relaxation effect.


2. Foam Roller Thoracic Spine Extension:

This exercise is a myofascial release technique that targets the thoracic spine, which can become stiff and tight due to poor posture and sitting for extended periods of time. It involves using a foam roller to gently massage the muscles in the upper back and shoulders, promoting better mobility and reducing muscle tension.

3. Archer Stretch:

This exercise targets the upper and lower back. Lying on your side with your knees up to your chest, pull back like you are pulling on a bow and arrow. The goal is to get the top side shoulder back to the ground behind you.

4. Supine Modified Piriformis Stretch:


This activity aims to stretch the piriformis muscle, often a source of tension leading to lower back discomfort and sciatica. The procedure includes reclining on your back, bending your knees, and positioning one ankle atop the counter knee. Then, tenderly draw the knee towards the converse shoulder, facilitating a stretch within the piriformis muscle.

5. Dynamic Standing Hamstring Stretch:


This activity is aimed at the hamstrings, which can tighten up because of extended periods of sitting or physical exertion. The procedure includes standing upright with straightened legs and bending forward to reach the toes, fostering a stretch in the backside of the legs. Moreover, you can perform this exercise on the move, alternating the leg stretch with each advancing step.

Integrating these five activities into your everyday regimen can enhance your flexibility and mobility, alleviate muscle rigidity, and boost athletic prowess. Whether you're a sports professional, fitness aficionado, or simply someone aiming to boost their holistic health, these exercises can aid in making you feel more supple and invigorated. However, it's crucial to remember that while these exercises can offer numerous benefits, you should always seek advice from a healthcare provider or physiotherapist prior to initiating any new fitness routine. Moreover, it's essential to pay heed to your body's signals and avoid overexertion, particularly if you're recuperating from an injury or have any existing health conditions. By adding these exercises into your daily schedule, you can not only amplify your flexibility and mobility but also decrease the likelihood of injury, thereby augmenting your overall health and wellness.

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