5 great ways to enhance mobility with low-impact exercises

Maintaining good mobility is essential for overall health and quality of life. As we age, our joints can become stiff, which makes everyday activities more challenging. Good mobility supports independence, reduces the risk of injuries, and improves physical health. Low-impact exercises are an excellent way to improve your mobility and overall health without putting undue stress on your joints. 

So, let’s explore the five best low impact exercises that can help improve your mobility. Hopewood Lifestyle encourages you to explore these gentle movements to support a holistic and natural approach to wellness.  

1. Ankle mobility

The ankle joints play an important role in our mobility and this exercise can help improve their flexibility. To perform this exercise, stand tall next to a wall for support. Slowly rock forward onto your toes, then rock back onto your heels. Repeat this motion 10 times.

2. Thoracic spine windmills on floor

Our spine is the backbone of our body, so it’s vital to keep it flexible. This exercise targets the upper body and can help reduce back pain while improving flexibility. To perform this exercise, lie on your side with your knees bent past 90 degrees. Extend both arms in front of you, palms together. Slowly lift your top arm, rotating it away from you and opening your chest to the ceiling. Hold for 3 seconds and return. Repeat 5 times on each side.

3. Walking hip openers

The hips are essential for maintaining balance and stability, and this exercise targets the hip joint to improve its flexibility. To perform this exercise, stand tall with feet hip-width apart. Lift your left knee to your chest and make a circular motion, bringing it up, across your body, out to the side, and down. Repeat 5 times on each leg, then reverse the direction.

4. Shoulder pass-through

Shoulder mobility is really important for everyday activities. This exercise can help improve its flexibility to prevent injuries. To perform this exercise, stand with feet shoulder-width apart, holding a broomstick parallel to the floor with a wide overhand grip. Slowly raise the broomstick above your head and bring it behind you as far as possible. Hold for 2-3 seconds and return. Repeat 5 times.

5. Neck half circles

Neck stiffness is a common issue that can impact mobility and cause discomfort. This exercise targets the neck muscles to improve flexibility and reduce stiffness. To perform this exercise, sit or stand comfortably with your hands on your lap. Tilt your head to one side until you feel a stretch, then roll your head forward to bring your chin to your chest and continue to the other side. Make 3 half circles slowly and then repeat the exercise in the other direction.

Incorporating these low-impact exercises into your daily routine can significantly improve your mobility and overall health. Remember, staying active is not only good for your body but also for your mind. 

If you want to learn more tips to keep you mobile and healthy visit now!