By Sam Cortes, Communications Coordinator
In a previous blog post, we introduced why flexibility matters, and provided a few basic exercises to try to get you started.
In this post, we’re progressing with these four video demos of exercises you can incorporate into your routine that require the following equipment: an exercise ball, a dowel, and an exercise mat.
Give these effective flexibility exercises a try — remember, they might look easy, but they’re harder than you think!
1. Kneeling Lat Stretch – Physio ball
This exercise will help you increase your flexibility and mobility by primarily targeting your latissimus dorsi (lats). It will also target your rear deltoids (back of shoulders) and trapezius (upper back).
2. Brettzel
This is a mobility exercise for the posterior chain of the body. Perform the movement slowly, especially as you bring your elbows to the floor. This exercise should not be felt as a lower back stretch.
3. Shoulder Raise – Lying
This exercise will assist with improving shoulder mobility. Perform the movement slowly, especially as you bring the dowel overhead.
4. Half-Kneeling Rotation With Dowel
This mobility exercise with spinal rotation will target hip flexors. It will also assist with motor control of the pelvis.
Questions? Reach out to us at fitness@sportmanitoba.ca.
