“You need to work on your mobility.”- Every coach, trainer, PT, etc.
We’ve all said it before countless times. But how many of those times were we
accurate? Did we say it because it’s the easy scapegoat, or because we know without a doubt there is a specific issue? Is static stretching really the answer to fixing that issue? And what exactly do we mean by “mobility”?
The term “mobility” gets thrown around by health and wellness professionals and has become almost synonymous with flexibility, range of motion, and the ability to move as desired. However, mobility encompasses all these aspects and more.
Mobility can be defined as the ability to maneuver and control the body or parts of it within the environment in order to perform tasks. This requires adequate joint range of motion, muscle flexibility, muscular strength and control, and movement coordination.
To effectively address an individual’s inability to perform a certain task, we must be specific in identifying the underlying issue. Using the blanket term “ankle mobility” for a client’s inability to perform a deep squat is insufficient. We need to tease out the exact cause, such as: bony ankle restriction, ankle ligamentous capsular tightness, soleus flexibility, glute max strength, ability to functionally utilize their available ankle range of motion in closed-chain movement patterns.
The ability to be specific in identifying the issue(s) leading to our clients’ mobility
impairments will better help us help them make demonstrable gains towards their fitness goals! Moving beyond generalizations and scapegoats, and focusing on precise, targeted interventions, will enhance our effectiveness as fitness professionals and lead to more successful client outcomes.
Dan Dallatore PT, DPT, OCS is a doctor of physical therapy and board certified orthopedic clinical specialist. He owns Infinite Capacity Physical Therapy, where he helps active individuals in the Greater Portland area prevent injuries and minimize symptoms so they can continue maximizing their fitness. Dan is also an active Level 2 CrossFit Trainer, both coaching and participating to improve his own fitness through a variety of activities and methodologies.
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