About two weeks ago I discussed doing joint mobility drills first thing in the morning. Specifically I chose Steve Maxwell’s Daily Dozen as my main morning drill. Well, it’s two weeks on and this is what I’ve found:
- I have been able to pinpoint problem areas with my flexibility, e.g. left hip, hamstrings, and lower back. By focusing on these exercises a little longer I have started to make improvements -- especially on the hamstrings. If you never stretch, or are quite sedentary you’ll never notice your flexibility weak points. The skeleto-muscular system is a network of interlinked components, so one tight bit can affect other parts of your body. Ironing out your flexibility issues can really increase your overall well being
- These exercises are a great segue into intense exercise first thing in the morning. I have never enjoyed working out first thing in the morning because I feel too stiff and uncoordinated. I did the first 8 exercises of the daily dozen, plus a couple of slow squats, which covers most body parts and gets the blood pumping to all corners. After this, I feel much more equipped to take on an intense kettlebell set without straining something!
I have more to write, but need to get moving! Once again I recommend trying joint mobility exercises first thing in the morning. At the very least you’ll feel a bit more relaxed and ready to take on the day.
Update:
Steve Maxwell just released 3 video courses of routines similar to the Daily Dozen. There is a video for each skill level: beginner, intermediate and advance. I have bought them just now, and will post my experience ASAP! In the meantime, check them out here.
Maxwell Joint Mobility Sample Video:
Jo | 08-Aug-09 at 6:12 pm | Permalink
Good post. I’ve just started doing a morning mobility routine this week myself. I mix it up a bit from day to day though, with extra focus on the muscles I worked hardest the previous days (I do some powerlifting training). Looking forward to hear more about your experiences!
The Strength Resource | 13-Sep-09 at 10:33 am | Permalink
Hi Jo!
Thanks for sharing your experiences.
Have you found it has helped you in any particular way?
I have two more followup posts about mobility training – just finding the time to finish them
In general I feel MUCH better than I did before starting on morning mobility.
Cheers
Joe