Written by Soft tissue work, that’s how. Active Isolated Stretching (AIS), foam rollers and lacrosse balls have become an important part of my training. Active Release Therapy (ART) is even better but more expensive. Mobility is a critical and often overlooked part of the workout. The aforementioned methods can/should be used before and after workouts. Dynamic mobility exercises should follow the foam roller work.
These things help to get your body warm and help to get the “kinks” out. If we don’t mobilize and warm the tissue before exercise then we are not only limiting its potential for strength but we put ourselves at risk for injury if we try to layer strength on top of dysfunction. Our muscles are connected by a sheath-like material of fascia. This means that not only is “the shinbone connected to the ankle bone” but the pain we feel on the left side of our neck might be related to tension and dysfunction in our right foot!
Before the marathon running and big bench presses, we need to move without restriction. Mobility before stability before strength. Also learn how to absorb force. You’ll have more athletic longevity and you’ll be less likely to hurt your back carrying the groceries.
