We’re taking a deep dive into three tests that we use to assess lower body health and function.
When discussing flexibility, it’s important to know that more flexibility does not mean “better”, as less flexibility does not mean “worse”.
Flexibility is ONE data point, and the amount and quality of flexibility gives us potential insight into why someone may be experiencing a specific symptom in a specific area.
Here are the top three tests that we use at More Than Movement to assess lower body flexibility and function.
- Toe Touch
- The Toe Touch assesses hamstring flexibility, lumbar spine mobility, and gives information on how we are able to organize our center of gravity.
- Can you touch your toes without bending your knees?
- Where do you feel tension during this test?
2. Deep Squat
- The Deep Squat assesses hip, knee, and ankle flexibility while simultaneously taking a closer look at the quad and glute strength
- How does your range of motion change when elevating your heels in option 2?
- How does your range of motion change when adding weight to the front of your body?
3. Cowboy Sit
- If we don’t bend our knees, our knees won’t bend
- Cowboy sit takes a look at the bending capabilities of the knee, testing our quad stiffness and knee capsular stiffness
- If you have an acute knee injury, proceed with caution.
- We are looking for a full touch of the heel to our back pocket.
- Where do you feel pressure?
- Does the pressure change as you rock back and forth 5 times?
How did you do? These three tests can make the invisible, visible.
In part two we will explore strength and control of the lower body.
Looking to tackle a nagging lower-body injury? Take action today by scheduling a complimentary discovery call: https://calendly.com/morethanmvmt/discovery
