Flexibility and Mobility
Flexibility and mobility are terms used in health and fitness industries. So, what is flexibility and what is mobility?
At our clinic, we often see patients who are struggling with stiffness, restricted movement, or ongoing aches and pains—especially in the lower back, neck, hips, knees, and shoulders. One of the key factors behind these issues is a lack of mobility or flexibility—and often, both.
But what’s the difference?
Flexibility is your muscles’ ability to lengthen passively. Picture this: you’re sitting at your desk leaning your head to one side to stretch the side of the neck. It can help to reduce muscle tension and supports overall range of movement.
Mobility, on the other hand, is your ability to actively control movement through a joint’s full range of movement. Think of lifting your arms overhead or doing a deep squat. Mobility requires both flexibility and strength. It's what allows you to move freely, efficiently, and without discomfort.
When either is lacking, the body starts to compensate. This can lead to joint stiffness, muscle tightness, and even chronic pain. For example, poor hip mobility can put strain on other areas of the body, while limited shoulder flexibility might lead to neck tension or upper back discomfort.
Training both mobility and flexibility is essential for injury prevention and pain management. Studies show that combining dynamic mobility exercises with static stretching can improve joint function and reduce the risk of injury (Behm et al., 2016).
Whether you're dealing with persistent aches or just want to move better, working on your mobility and flexibility can:
Improve posture and alignment
Reduce stiffness and muscle fatigue
Support healthy ageing and joint health
Lower your risk of injury and pain
In short: flexibility gives you the range; mobility gives you control. You need both to stay active, pain-free, and moving at your best.
If you're experiencing stiffness or pain, we can help assess your mobility and create a personalised plan to get you moving better—book an appointment today.
Reference:
Behm, D. G., et al. (2016). Acute effects of muscle stretching on performance and range of motion: a systematic review. Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism, 41(1), 1-11.
