This past week, while touring Rogers Place before a Blue Jays game (I highly suggest game-day tours!), I watched an LA Angels player in the dugout. His warm-up included mobility-focused exercises, like dumbbell overhead walks and using a DIY stick to enhance flexibility. Mobility isn't just for pro athletes. Unfortunately, young athletes often focus more on foundational strength and overlook the role mobility plays in injury prevention, flexibility, and overall performance. This type of training should be part of every athlete’s training plan. Failing to incorporate mobility training may result in reduced performance or an increased risk of injury. Incorporating this type of training can enhance the range of motion and athletic longevity.
Rogers Place Tour Experience
On game day, the Rogers Place tour allowed us to go behind the scenes, stepping into spaces not open to the public. We wandered through restaurants, private suites, and stood on the field, with a close-up view of the dugouts. It was an experience that showed us how players and staff prepare for the game in ways most people don’t get to see. One of the highlights was being on the field during the Blue Jays' batting practice. The commitment and dedication these players have to the game are unreal. Playing 6 games in 1 week, having a game in one city one night, and then another the next day. Their warm-up started well before I arrived, which was 4 hours before the first pitch.
Observations on Athlete Mobility
In the dugout, an LA Angels player was intensely focused on his mobility exercises. He performed dumbbell overhead walks, activating his shoulder stability and core strength, while some might be scared to touch a dumbbell on game day. Additionally, he utilized a DIY mobility stick for various flexibility routines. This approach highlighted the significance of mobility in athletic performance, which can often be overlooked by many. Observing an elite athlete prioritize such exercises underscores the practical benefits of incorporating mobility into training. It’s an important aspect that enhances flexibility, reduces injury risk, and supports overall performance, proving essential for both amateur and professional athletes alike.
DIY Mobility Stick
Creating a DIY mobility stick is easier than you might think. You can use items like PVC pipe or a sturdy wooden dowel. This tool can be integrated into various exercises to improve flexibility and range of motion. Start by using the DIY mobility stick for shoulder dislocates or thoracic spine rotations, and gradually add more complex exercises as your flexibility improves. This cost-effective tool can significantly enhance your training routine.
Advice for Young Athletes
Young athletes should balance mobility exercises with foundational strength and endurance training. It's easy to focus on lifting weights, but neglecting mobility can limit potential and increase injury risk. Flexibility and mobility training offer long-term benefits like improved performance, quicker recovery times, and greater body awareness. Start with simple routines and gradually integrate more complex exercises as your flexibility improves. This approach will set a solid foundation for future athletic success, enhancing your overall performance and health.
