Mobility for swimmers

We all know the dedication it takes to be a swimmer. The early mornings, the endless laps, the relentless pursuit of that perfect stroke.

While strength and endurance are undoubtedly vital for moving through the water, neglecting your body's ability to move freely can be a significant limiting factor. Think of your body as a finely tuned machine. If the joints are stiff and the muscles are tight, that machine won't operate at its peak efficiency, no matter how powerful the engine.

Mobility vs. Flexibility: Understanding the Difference

It's easy to confuse mobility with flexibility, but they aren't the same.

• Flexibility refers to the passive range of motion around a joint. You might be able to touch your toes while sitting, showcasing good hamstring flexibility.

• Mobility, on the other hand, is the ability to actively control movement through a full range of motion. This involves not just stretching but also engaging the surrounding muscles to stabilize and control the joint throughout the movement.

For swimmers, this distinction is critical. You need more than just loose shoulders; you need the strength and control to rotate your arms fully during the stroke, maintain a streamlined body position, and generate powerful kicks.

Why Mobility Training is Essential for Swimmers:

Here's how incorporating mobility training into your routine can significantly benefit your swimming:

• Improved Stroke Efficiency

• Reduced Risk of Injury

• Enhanced Power and Performance

• Better Body Position

• Faster Recovery

Incorporating Mobility Training into Your Routine:

Mobility training doesn't need to be a lengthy or complicated addition to your schedule. Even 10-15 minutes a few times a week can make a significant difference. Here are some areas to focus on:

• Shoulder Mobility: Arm circles, dynamic stretches like swimmer's stretches, and exercises using resistance bands.

• Thoracic Spine Mobility: Cat-cow stretches, thoracic rotations, and foam rolling.

• Hip Mobility: Hip circles, leg swings, and deep squats.

• Ankle Mobility: Ankle rotations, calf raises, and dorsiflexion/plantarflexion exercises.

The Takeaway:

Don't let limited mobility hold you back from reaching your full potential in the water. By prioritizing mobility training alongside your strength and endurance work, you'll unlock greater efficiency, reduce your risk of injury, and ultimately become a faster, more powerful swimmer.

Need help getting your mobility on track? Hit REPLY to this email and put MOBILITY in the subject line and I will get back to you on setting up a time to chat about a game plan for you!

Talk soon,

Dr. Sandra and Team