We’ve all had those mornings when you wake up late, time is tight, or you don’t feel like going to the gym because it’s pouring rain and blowing a gale outside. But missing your normal routine doesn't mean you have to rule out moving your body entirely.
Getting some form of movement in the morning is crucial. A quick morning stretch actively lubricates your joints, jumpstarts your blood flow, and releases lingering overnight muscle tension. Even better, it acts as a natural wake-up call, shaking off the grogginess and leaving you sharper and more alert for the day ahead.
To help you get moving without leaving the house, our fitness team at Mount Annan put together this simple, equipment-free, 15-minute Mobility Flow to help you wake up your nervous system, loosen up tight hips and shoulders, and start your morning with a quick win.
No equipment required (a yoga mat is optional). Set a timer, move slowly, and focus on your breathing:
- March on the Spot (2 mins): March gently while swinging your arms to warm up.
- Shoulder Rolls & Arm Circles (1 min): Roll your shoulders forwards and backwards, then complete arm circles.
- Cat-Cow Stretch (2 mins): On hands and knees, alternate between arching and rounding your back.
- World's Greatest Stretch (2 mins): Step into a lunge, place one hand on the floor, and rotate your upper body towards the front leg. Repeat on both sides.
- Hip Openers (2 mins): Lift one knee and circle it outwards. Repeat on each leg.
- Bodyweight Squats (2 mins): Perform slow, controlled squats with feet shoulder-width apart.
- Hamstring Stretch (2 mins): Extend one heel forward and gently hinge at the hips. Switch sides.
- Deep Breathing & Reach (2 mins): Reach overhead with each breath and finish with a gentle forward fold.
If this quick morning flow has you craving a longer stretch workout, take it to the next level at the gym. For a full, guided workout dedicated entirely to mobility and movement, be sure to check out our Mount Annan Body Balance and Yoga classes on our brand new Group Fitness Timetable here!
