This week, we are working on our hip rotation and our glute strength. Put these two exercise together for a great lower body warm-up before heading out on your hike, bike ride, or run.
Hip Mobility Exercises – Week 1
This week we are working on our hip abduction. Hip abduction is when one leg moves towards the side, or away from the center line. The most obvious and common ways we use this movement in our daily lives is when getting in and out of bed, in and out of the car, or side-stepping out of the way.
Weakness in this area can cause the hip to “cave” to the outside which causes the knee to dip inward when walking or going up steps. These 2 motions can lead to hip and knee pain.
Functional Range Conditioning – Week Four
We are working on the rotation or our shoulders this week. Try these rotational hovers to create more workspace in the shoulder to help increase strength and function.
Functional Range Conditioning – Week Three
Continuing the work on the shoulders this week, we are adding in movement for the shoulder girdle, specifically the scapulas (shoulder blades). We will then use that new movement and strengthen and challenge our range in shoulder external rotation to help fortify our shoulders and improve their function.
Functional Range Conditioning – Week Two
This week, we are working on the shoulders. Poor movement in the shoulders can lead to ligament tears in the rotator cuff, neck pain, and elbow pain. It can also severely limit your ability to press and pull. Try these 2 moves to gain more control in those shoulders.
Functional Range Conditioning – Week One
In the past few months, I was able to attend 2 workshops from Functional Range Systems. I am beyond impressed with this system and its ability to not only improve mobility, but push the upper limits of increasing strength. Due to the specificity of the system, the ability to make these gains can all be done with less volume and less stress on the body. It is the definition of working smarter.
All month long, I will be posting exercises and movements that utilize this system. This system has a high focus on the joint capsules. Try them out and let me know what you think.
Spinal Mobility Month – Week Four
For our last week of spinal mobility month, we are mobilizing our low backs by isolating lumbar spine movement. We are also trying a functional balance exercise that incorporates spinal twisting.
Spinal Mobility Month – Week Three
We have a challenging group for you this week. These two exercises fire up your core while learning to control the movements of your spine.
Spinal Mobility Month – Week Two
This week, we are focusing on full spinal movement. Try out this first foam roller exercise to help increase rotation of your spine. Then try the 2nd video to help you find motion in the sagittal plane (front to back).
Spinal Mobility Month – Week One
For the month of February, we are focusing on spinal mobility. For this first week, we are putting special emphasis on the mid-back or thoracic spine. Check out the moves below and try them today to bring some movement into the spine.
Brenna Backe 