I see things a little differently when it comes to people being in “good shape”. Most people see a friend who runs a lot and think he’s in good shape. I look at how they move. I look at things like hip and shoulder mobility, core stability and glute function. Are they able to coordinate their entire body to perform a good squat or pushup? I don’t care if someone runs or does yoga every day, if they can’t perform a good hip hinge, squat or pushup then, to me, they’re just not in great shape.
I look at everyone as an athlete and I think it’s my job to help them improve their game. Their sport is life. Each day we walk, sit down, stand up, pick up things, turn around, bend over, etc. It’s shocking to me to see that so many people can’t perform basic movement patterns that will help them alleviate wear and tear on their backs, hips and shoulders. I hear all the time about people’s aches and pains. People are convinced that their backs or shoulders are the issue. I certainly don’t blame them, after all that’s where the pain is, but if I can get one point across to you it’s this:
With the exception of a blunt force injury, such as a fall or car accident, almost all back and shoulder pain is the result of poor movement patterns.
So may times people attack the symptom, not the “disease” so to speak. It’s like Homer Simpson putting a piece of tape over the “check engine” light.
When I program exercise for people, I always think “Movement First”. It’s amazing what happens to people’s aches and pains when they perform just a little bit of good movement.
Next week, I’ll give you some specifics about how you can get yourself moving better and improve your game.
Mitch Rothbardt, CPT, PN Lean Eating Coach, FMS
2861 Grove Way in Castro Valley
510-754-7113
I Help People Discover Their Strength!
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