We shouldn’t be surprised that some people remain fit, flexible and healthy well into their 60’s and beyond. Aging alone does not make one weak, less mobile and out of shape yet aging is most often associated with decline. You don’t “catch” immobility like a disease. But immobility and weakness develop when you stop moving no matter the age.
“You don’t lose mobility from aging. You lose mobility from not using the full range of a joint.” Dr. Andreo Spina
Let’s look at the knees for example. Many people have limited and painful knees. Daily we sit in chairs, move to cars, slide into an elevated bed and never bend the knee beyond 90°. The normal range of a knee should be 135°. But when we self-limit full range usage of our knee over years upon years it leads to the inability to fully squat, climb, get up off the floor and even stay in posture in the golf swing. The same is true for the shoulder, hips and spine and every other joint. Less use leads to limited use.
Daily life, sports and even some workout routines that don’t use the full functional range of a joint lead to less mobility.
Mobility has to be maintained by moving and controlling the joint. Mobility of each joint independently is a prerequisite for interdependent movement of multiple joints necessary for walking, striking, and all other compound movements. A daily fitness routine which incorporates moving each joint independently in the fullest range possible will keep the joint healthy.
Mobility routines are preventative in nature and promote joint health. The great news is that it’s never too late to begin even if you have already lost some mobility. Movement with force through rotations is safe, increases stimulation, diffuses nutrients, and stimulates growth and repair. We were designed for movement and when we don’t move, we lose mobility. Mobility work is simple and becomes easier when it becomes a daily routine.
The new 3D Mobility class now incorporates C.A.R.s or controlled articular rotations moving your joints independently through full rotations using some degree of resistance. By doing CAR’s daily you maintain a usable range and normal joint function and practice stability of the remainder of your body. RSVP for class plus contact me for your specific needs or a private appointment to tackle your toughest fitness, nutrition and mindset issues!
3 Responses to “C.A.R.s – A Daily Mobility Routine”
February 19, 2016
Chris CollinsPam,
Would love to attend one of your mobility classes. Please put me on your list for the next class.
Chris Collins
713-703-4836
February 23, 2016
Pam OwensThank you, Chris. I’ll send out dates of upcoming classes/clinics.
October 4, 2020
Weightlifter NoahA CAR without any props or load where you are consciously trying to stop coupling from other joints but not blocking movement with props is known as a level 1 CAR. Level 1 CARs should be done as often as possible, preferably once a day or more, as part of your daily or morning routine. During the daily routine keep the effort and tension you create in your body to around 30%.