One of the 10 daily actions for better health is: move your shoulders and hips through their full ranges of motion.
But what does that actually mean?
Full range of motion (ROM) is moving a joint from full extension to full flexion.
- Extension: The joint is fully straightened (sometimes near lockout, like knees).
- Flexion: The joint is fully bent.
Why Full Range of Motion Matters
1️⃣ More ROM = More Strength
Research consistently shows that training through a full range of motion builds more muscle at any age. Training deeper positions of a movement—like the bottom of a squat—can produce even bigger gains in certain muscle groups.
2️⃣ Injury Prevention
Most injuries come from poor movement patterns, often caused by limited mobility. Better mobility:
- Leads to safer movement patterns
- Allows you to reach deeper positions in exercises
- Builds more muscle to protect your joints as you move through these deeper ranges
3️⃣ Longevity
As you age, your focus shifts from building a fitness buffer to maintaining it. You’ll still want to squat, press, run, and move freely—even in retirement!
Continuing to train full ranges of motion, especially in hips and shoulders, helps:
- Preserve mobility
- Keep bone density high
- Maintain strength and function for years to come
So, get moving today! Work on your mobility, explore fuller ranges of motion, and maximize every exercise while building a stronger buffer for long-term health.
Have a wonderful day, y’all, and see you in the gym,
To talk with a coach today, click the link found HERE to schedule your No Sweat Intro