Dr. Scott Gardner: A simple test to see if a person has good flexibility is to do a standing toe touch. So, standing with your feet together, toes pointed forward and legs straight, bending forward to see if you can touch your toes. This test assesses flexibility in the lower back, hips and hamstrings.
Really, there is always room to improve flexibility. Not looking to become a gymnast or a ballerina, but just actively working on just a little bit more flexibility is always a good thing.
We know good posture is important for our health, but what role does posture play in flexibility?
Dr. Scott Gardner: Good posture improves flexibility by distributing your body weight evenly across your skeletal structure. This reduces strain on your muscles and joints, and really helps to maintain balance.
How does flexibility help improve our balance and stability, which is important as we age?
Dr. Scott Gardner: As we age, most people will lose flexibility if they’re not actively working on maintaining it. Flexibility helps to improve balance by allowing for smooth and coordinated movements. A lack of flexibility can increase the risk of falling or stumbling.
Can flexibility allow us to build greater strength, both in our muscles and in bone health?
Dr. Scott Gardner: Flexibility training can increase muscle strength and stability. It can also improve your balance and reduce joint pain, really adding in weight-bearing exercises like walking, jogging, stair climbing, weight training can slow bone loss.
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