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As we age past 50, it becomes increasingly important to focus on maintaining mobility for our overall health and well-being. At Hilliard Studio Method (HSM), our approach combines stretch, strength, and Pilates to assist individuals in preserving their mobility, balance, and flexibility, regardless of age. Having created this core-centric, full-body workout method, I’ve witnessed how movement can empower individuals of various ages and fitness levels. Now at 70, I have come to understand the significance of failure, hard work, authenticity, and above all, joy – and I’m eager to offer my top advice for staying mobile and healthy: keep moving.
If you’re looking to sustain your mobility and strength, consider incorporating these 10 exercises into your routine. These exercises are ideal for warming up or cooling down after your daily workout, aiding in your efforts to remain active and limber.
Start with the Cat-Cow Stretch
To begin, get on all fours with your hands positioned under your shoulders and your hips directly over your knees. Exhale deeply as you round your mid-back up like a cat. On the inhale, arch your back with your head and tailbone reaching upward towards the ceiling. Perform this motion for 3 to 5 cycles. This exercise is beneficial for enhancing spinal flexibility and alleviating tension in the back.
Roll Your Shoulders for Better Mobility
Roll your shoulders forward and backward to improve shoulder mobility and reduce stiffness several times a day.
Stretch Your Hamstrings and Lower Back
While seated on the floor, reach towards your toes to stretch the hamstrings and lower back. Use a towel or strap if you can’t reach your toes.
Practice the Standing Quad Stretch
Standing on one leg, pull the opposite foot towards your buttocks to stretch the quadriceps. Add a gentle pelvic tilt to increase the stretch and protect your lower back.
Flex and Extend Your Ankles
Sit or stand and flex and extend your ankles to improve ankle mobility and circulation. This is a simple and easy mobility move that can be done several times a day.
Connect Your Core and Posture
Stand against a wall with abdominal muscles engaged with lower and upper back against the wall and knees gently flexed. Move your arms up and down in a “W” to “Y” motion, promoting shoulder mobility, core strength, and posture.
Strengthen with Lunges
Step forward bending your front knee directly over your ankle dropping no lower than your knee. Repeat on both legs 8-10 times or until you’re fatigued. Lunges enhance hip flexibility and strengthen leg muscles.
Twist Your Torso
While seated or standing, gently twist your torso to each side to improve spinal rotations. Engage your core to aid in whittling down your waist!
Build Strength with Squats
Standing with feet hip distance apart, squat as if you’re lowering into a chair. When knees are at hip height, push to standing. To modify, use a chair to assist by sitting lightly then standing. Try as many as possible with the goal of 30 each day.
Keep Moving Every Single Day
Walking at least 20 minutes a day is one of the easiest and most efficient ways to maintain your mobility and strength. Movement of any kind is your key to longevity while a sedentary lifestyle is your fast track to the doctor and poor health. Try these daily habits:
– Resist the elevator and take the steps
– Stand and/or pace while you’re talking on the phone
– Have a dance party all by yourself and watch your mood lighten and your energy increase! And if you enjoyed this article, don’t miss these 100 Unhealthiest Foods on the Planet.
About the Author:
Liz Hilliard is the owner and creator of Hilliard Studio Method (HSM) – a core-centric, total-body workout where Pilates meets Strength Training. Hilliard’s internationally-renowned method and her motivational and inspiring approach to wellness and aging empower women and men of all generations and fitness levels to accept themselves where they are and keep moving. Visit HilliardStudioMethod.com or follow @lizhilliardhsm.
