I regularly use the term Joint Mobility (or JOI MOB) to refer to a series of range of motion exercises intended to “lubricate the joints” through movement, and get a lifter physically and mentally ready for activity. By definition, Joint Mobility refers to the degree to which an articulation ( or joint, where two bones meet) is allowed to move before being restricted by surrounding tissues (ligaments/tendons/muscles etc.)… otherwise known as the range of uninhibited movement around a joint, or Range of Motion.
During the systematic movement of each joint synovial fluid, a kind of internal ointment, is produced and acts on many different levels to encourage structural health of the entire body. For example, in addition to it’s lubricating qualities, synovial fluid posses important shock absorption capability, it also plays a major role in nutrient and waste transportation. Needless to say, all of these are good things and would benefit any moving body, so “who needs joint mobility?” Everyone!
The program that I subscribe to and recommend to my students is very well summarized in this Joint Mobility link, and I regularly suggest it as a minimum level of practice for my participants. Try it out yourself for a week and see how it feels, recommend it to anyone who you think might benefit from it, and be sure to give your body what it needs. Enjoy!
