This article has kindly been shared by Alison Richmond from Provention.
Why Do We Lose Flexibility?
The Real Causes Behind Reduced Mobility
Flexibility is something we often take for granted – until it starts to fade. Watching young children move effortlessly – touching their toes, squatting deeply, or rolling forward – can make us think, “Those were the days!”
While aging does play a role, it’s not the whole story. The reality is simple: if you don’t use it, you lose it.
What Contributes to Reduced Flexibility?
1. Natural Changes with Age
As we age, our bodies undergo physical changes. Connective tissues stiffen, and elastin – the protein responsible for tissue stretchiness – gradually decreases. These factors do impact flexibility, but they don’t explain everything.
2. A Cultural Perspective on Movement
In many cultures, older adults can still squat comfortably with their feet flat on the ground – a movement many Westerners struggle with. Why? Because they’ve never stopped doing it.
Consistently performing natural movements throughout life helps maintain flexibility. In contrast, Western lifestyles often eliminate these movements, favouring chairs over floor sitting and supported postures over natural mobility.
3. The Impact of Sustained Postures
One of the biggest reasons for flexibility loss is prolonged postures. The body adapts to whatever position it spends the most time in.
For example:
- Sitting for long periods tightens hip flexors while weakening opposing muscles like the glutes, leading to imbalances
- Hunched-forward posture from desk work or screen use can cause tight shoulders and a stiff back, making natural movement feel restricted.
Modern lifestyles involve long hours at desks, in front of screens, or commuting – all of which contribute to reduced flexibility over time.
➡ Want to hear what sustained postures do to your body? Check out this quick video – it’s an eye-opener!
4. Other Factors That Reduce Flexibility
Modern Lifestyle Habits
Everyday conveniences shape how we move. Sitting in chairs instead of squatting, driving instead of walking, and relying on supermarkets instead of foraging, all reduce natural movement variety.
Injury and Surgery
If an injury or surgery isn’t followed by proper rehabilitation, it can lead to long-term movement restrictions and stiffness.
Sedentary Lifestyles
When we don’t move enough, our joints don’t experience their full range of motion, gradually reducing flexibility.
Body Composition
Excess body fat can physically limit movement, restricting joint mobility and range of motion.
What’s Next?
If this sounds familiar, don’t worry – next, Alison will look into the consequences of reduced flexibility and why it matters for your overall health.
For now, one thing is clear: losing flexibility isn’t just about aging. It’s about movement.
By staying active, challenging our postures, and embracing mobility, we can maintain flexibility and keep our bodies functioning at their best!
