How We Keep Ourselves Mobile

Here at Activ, our physios are often telling our patients how important it is to keep mobile, whatever your age. Humans have a basic physical and psychological need to move the body and physical activity is a primary drive. Low levels of movement are related to numerous physical and mental health problems. Those who move more frequently have less occurrence of blood clots, frozen joints, cartilage, impaired digestion, metabolic disease and even skin problems. Even when sleeping, a healthy body continues to move regularly with about 135 total movements per session of sleep, of which 15.1 of them are postural adjustments. Sudden declines of movement (outside of normal sleep and rest) are associated with worsening of health and accelerated ageing. The feel-good factor of movement can never be underestimated.

Our Activ staff reveal how they like to keep mobile.

Helen: 'I have a good stretch every morning followed by a cold shower to wake me up. I'm experimenting with Red Light and Infrared light therapy to help my old knee joints. I do weekly yoga and can now touch my toes but I still can't kneel without the aid of blocks. I also attend the occasional Bootcamp and enjoy outdoor swimming.'

George: 'I like to keep mobile with a variety of activities throughout the week. I like to get out running with my dog on the trails out in the Peak District or, on less energetic days, just walking. I try to vary other exercises by doing yoga or some strength and conditioning. My main goal at the moment is trying to work on overall flexibility, strength and stability by doing the Simplistic Mobility Method by Tom Morrison, or following programmes by Petra Fisher or Roger Frampton. I'm doing just a little each day and I'm really noticing how I am starting to move differently.'

Cheryl: 'I've started running again and Debbie advised me not to do too much too soon!  I also enjoy doing Adrienne Mischler's yoga sessions, available on YouTube. Because some of the sessions are very short, I can complete them before breakfast. I've recently joined a weekly dance class to learn the Charleston, popular in the 1920s, which involves quick footwork, syncopated rhythms and energetic arm movements. The classes are good for my memory (all those different steps and sequences) and coordination. It feels very inclusive and it doesn't matter if you don't get the steps right the first time – plus I come away feeling I've had a full body workout!' 

Clare: 'I keep mobile by walking my two dogs, Teyha, a German Shepherd and Elvis, a Cocker Spaniel. They would walk for 24 hours a day if they had their way! Looking after and riding my horse, Chess, also keeps me fit. Mucking out, pushing wheelbarrows and lifting bags of bedding and food are enough of a workout, plus I'm riding Chess four times a week to keep her fit and healthy. I particularly enjoy exercising outdoors so animals are a great way to achieve this along with caring for them being good for the soul too!'

Lorna: 'I walk my dog and I'm busy with family stuff. I try to do 10.000 steps a day but don't always make it!'

Suvarna: 'I keep myself mobile by going out for walks on a good day as much as I can or indoor walking on a treadmill. I have been practising yoga for several years which I try to do three times a week. I have recently started doing Tai Chi. I'm at the beginner's level but enjoying it.'

Rob: 'I enjoy my running, and walking out in the Peak'.

Annette: 'When I volunteer at Longshaw National Trust, I enjoy going on a 'litter pick' around the estate. Not only do I get exercise from the walk but I'm doing something worthwhile and enjoying the natural beauty of the countryside and those far-reaching views. I can also reward myself with a 'Scone Of The Month' in the estate cafe. Can I admit to that?!!'

Andy: 'Finding time to keep mobile is always a challenge. Jogging is easy to do when I get up on a weekend or after work. If I have more time, I love going out on my mountain bike into the Peak District with friends. I try to get the kids involved and walk or cycle with them to the park or school. On a night my wife is out, and I am designated childminder, I put the kids to bed and do a Pilates class online. I have also used an app that is for runners that has loads of strength exercise and stretching programmes that can be done in my own time – I have Debbie to thank for the recommendation'

Sujay: 'I try to keep mobile and fit with gym sessions three times a week. I try to fit in 45 minute workouts which include strengthening exercises, mobility exercises and light cardio sessions. I also try to fit in sauna sessions followed by cold showers. I also walk to get groceries!'

Nora: 'I like to keep mobile by getting my 10,000 steps in every day, whether by walking around campus (it's very helpful that Sheffield University's buildings are distanced far enough apart to make this achievable!) or by sometimes marching around the house if I'm having a lazy day! I haven't had a day off since August and I don't intend to break my streak!'

If you would like to book an appointment with one of our team, call our friendly receptionists on:

Totley: 0114 235 2727

Hope: 01433 623 602