Happy March! As the days are getting longer, and the tulips begin to make an appearance, it’s becoming a little easier to get outside and enjoy the trails. So this month, our Mobility Monday exercises will be tailored towards helping those walking muscles to move with ease.
I wanted to start off the month by sharing one of my favourite exercises (I know I say that about a lot of exercises, but seriously guys, this one feels ahh-ma-zing!). I have tried downward dog, and the lunge (you know, the one where you push against the wall) to stretch my calves, but really, nothing compares to this stretch! It’s functional to walking, and I find that I’m able to hit just the right spot in the back of the lower leg with this version of the calf stretch.
All you will need is a rolled up towel or a half dome, or yoga mat, and this stretch can be done anywhere.
How cute are my mini-mover’s feet! (Monkey-see, Monkey-do!)
You can easily multi-task while doing this stretch – while at a stand-up desk, doing your hair, or waiting for your morning coffee – so no excuses! Roll up that towel and let’s get started!
How it’s done: Place the ball of your right foot on the roll or half-dome, with your heel on the floor. Take a small step forward with your left foot (making sure to keep your right heel on the ground). Depending on how that feels, you can either stay in that position, or take a slightly longer step forward. Now align your hips over the roll, and your shoulders over your hips. Lastly, bring your head back so that your ears line up over your shoulders and hold that for about 30-60 seconds (or longer if you’re feeling good!). Remember to repeat on the other side. You can repeat this many times throughout the day and notice how it feels to walk afterwards.
Note: if you’re outside, find a root or a curb to stretch mid-walk.
Try it out, and let me know how it goes in the comments section below.
See you next week!
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