Keeping your body healthy and pain-free doesn’t happen by accident—it takes intention, consistency, and the right movement strategies. That’s the message from our very own Jerry McCollow. Recently featured in Men’s Journal, Jerry shared his personal daily routine of hip stretches that keep him moving strong in his 60s, including competing in triathlons.
At 66 years old and with four decades of PT experience under his belt, Jerry knows firsthand the toll a sedentary lifestyle or stiff joints can take on the body. Tight hips are a common culprit behind lower back discomfort, hamstring strain, and poor mobility. But according to Jerry, the right mix of dynamic and static stretching can make all the difference.
In the Men’s Journal article, Jerry breaks down five simple but powerful moves he swears by to keep his hips mobile and pain-free:
- Alternating Forward Lunge with Overhead Reach
- Alternating Side Lunge with Overhead Reach
- Half-Kneeling Stretch
- Figure Four Stretch
- Sphinx Pose
“Fitness is better than brute strength,” Jerry says. “All of these exercises are easy and comfortable to do, but they work wonders for mobility.”
How a Physical Therapist Can Help
Incorporating these five exercises into your routine can help keep your hips mobile and pain-free. However, for personalized guidance and to ensure you’re performing each movement correctly, a physical therapist can be an invaluable resource. They can tailor exercises to your specific needs, help speed up your recovery, enhance mobility, and provide customized plans to prevent future back pain. Don’t hesitate to seek professional support at one of our physical therapy clinics today.