Many individuals, if not most people by the time they are 40, perform their daily activities and exercises while standing and being in a predominantly upright position.

As you approach your 40’s, chances are your movement patterns do not usually vary too much. You can almost predict what you will do everyday. This is just habit forming and it is what we, as humans have developed.

Unfortunately, with these repetitive movements, comes overuse, muscular imbalances and niggly injuries, possibly leading to further issues. How could we change this?

By no means am I suggesting you stop your activities at all, but consider adding , or complementing your activities with some ground based(quadrupedal) movement.

Including quadrupedal movements in an exercise routine can offer several benefits for individuals over 40.

Here are a few reasons why they can be beneficial:

1. Core and Stability Training: Quadrupedal movements, such as bear crawls, static beast, Static crab, engage the core muscles and improve stability. As we age, maintaining a strong core becomes increasingly important for overall functional fitness, balance, and injury prevention.
2. Joint Mobility and Flexibility: Quadrupedal movements involve multiple joints, such as the hips, knees, and shoulders, in a coordinated manner. Performing these movements regularly can help improve joint mobility and flexibility, reducing the risk of stiffness or discomfort that can come with age.
3. Whole-Body Integration: Quadrupedal exercises require the coordinated use of both the upper and lower body, promoting integration and balance between different muscle groups. This can enhance overall body strength and coordination, which is crucial for maintaining independence and preventing falls.
4. Improved Posture: Many quadrupedal movements, such as the wave-unload, Crab reach, scorpion reach, focus on promoting proper posture and alignment. These exercises target the muscles responsible for supporting good posture, including the core, back, and shoulder stabilisers.
5. Neurological Benefits: Quadrupedal movements stimulate the brain and nervous system, promoting neural pathways and coordination. Engaging in these exercises regularly can have positive effects on cognitive function and neuroplasticity, which is particularly valuable as we age.
6. Low-Impact Exercise: Quadrupedal movements are generally low-impact, meaning they put less stress on the joints compared to high-impact activities like running or jumping. This makes them suitable for individuals with joint issues or those who prefer lower-impact exercises.
7. Variety and Fun: Including quadrupedal movements in your exercise routine adds variety and fun to your workouts. They can break the monotony of traditional exercises and provide a fresh challenge for both the body and mind.

Being over 40 myself and practicing Animal Flow I am living proof of the benefits of ground-based training. So, get down and re-energise your training routine by including some ground based movement.

It might be the one ingredient that you have been looking for.

It’s important to note that before starting any new exercise routine, especially if you’re over 40 or have any underlying health concerns, it’s wise to consult with a healthcare professional or a qualified fitness trainer who can provide personalised guidance and ensure the exercises are appropriate for your individual needs and fitness level.