Knee Mobility Exercises: Improving Function & Flexibility
Your knees are one of the most important joints in your body for walking, running and other activities. Unfortunately, many people lose mobility in their knees due to age, injury, or lifestyle. Fortunately, there are simple exercises you can do to improve the range of motion in your knees and reduce pain and stiffness.
Why Is Knee Mobility Important?
Having good knee mobility is essential for doing everyday activities like walking, running, and jumping. Without good knee mobility, you’re more likely to suffer from pain and stiffness in your knees as well as other parts of your body. Improving the range of motion in your knees can also help to improve stability and reduce the risk of injury.
How to Improve Knee Mobility
There are a variety of exercises you can do to improve the mobility of your knees. Here are some of the most effective ones:
1. Squats
Squats are a great way to improve the range of motion in your knees. To do a squat, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Slowly lower your body by bending your knees and pushing your hips back. When your thighs are parallel to the ground, push back up to the starting position.
2. Lunges
Lunges are another great exercise for improving the mobility of your knees. To do a lunge, stand with one foot in front of the other. Lower your body by bending both knees until your front thigh is parallel to the ground and your back knee is just above the floor. Push back up to the starting position.
3. Calf Raises
Calf raises are also an effective way to improve knee mobility. To do a calf raise, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Slowly raise your heels off the ground, hold for a few seconds, and then lower your heels back down.
4. Step-Ups
Step-ups are a great way to improve the range of motion in your knees. To do a step-up, stand in front of a step or box. Step up onto the box with one foot, and then push up with the other foot to bring your body up to the top of the step. Lower your body back down, and then repeat with the other foot.
5. Leg Swings
Leg swings are also an excellent way to improve the mobility of your knees. To do a leg swing, stand in front of a wall or chair and hold onto it for balance. Swing one leg forward and then backward in a smooth, controlled motion. Make sure you keep your foot flexed and your knee straight throughout the movement.
Conclusion
Knee mobility exercises are a great way to improve the range of motion in your knees and reduce pain and stiffness. Doing these exercises regularly can help to improve stability and reduce the risk of injury. If you’re experiencing knee pain or stiffness, be sure to consult with a healthcare professional to make sure these exercises are right for you.
