By LTA’s Anna Poyser | UPDATED: 05:28, 06 February 2024
The great game of life, much like any vigorous sport, demands not just spirit but a fine-tuned physique that’s both flexible and strong.
Now, while you won’t find me doing cartwheels on the green, Anna Poyser, the LTA’s astute physiotherapist, dishes out some savvy advice on sidestepping injuries as you train—something to ponder whether you’re swinging racquets or pumping iron.
The distinction between flexibility and mobility is akin to knowing the difference between a driver and a putter—both crucial, but not the same club.
Flexibility is your muscle’s ability to stretch the old-fashioned way—think reaching down to tie your shoelaces without a groan.
Mobility, on the other hand, is about owning that stretch, controlling it like you control a swing, and applying strength where it counts.
Imagine a tennis player hunkered down in a semi-squat, darting to return a serve. That’s not just flexibility; that’s mobility at its peak—maintaining form, conserving energy, and prepping for the next move without a hitch.
And it’s not just for the court; it’s golden for any fitness regime. Incorporating these principles can transform a routine workout into a symphony of well-orchestrated moves.
So how do you up your game? Start simple: grab a broom and mimic those swinging or rotating movements in your warm-up.
Spending a mere five minutes mirroring the motions you’ll perform can be a game-changer, cutting down the risk of pulling something you didn’t intend.
There’s no universal playbook for perfect mobility, but integrating targeted exercises into your weekly grind can elevate your performance to the pro leagues. And while you’re at it, why not catch some elite action?
Tune into LTA – Tennis for Britain on your preferred streaming battleground and see flexibility and mobility in its finest hour.
Keep these tips in your back pocket, and you’ll not only boost your fitness but also steer clear from those pesky injuries that sideline many a good athlete. After all, staying in play is what it’s all about.