Ageing is associated with a variety of changes in the body and can have a notable impact on joint health. Whilst our natural strength and flexibility decrease with age, our ability to become stronger and more flexible stays the same – it’s all about consistent training.
To support your fitness goals and help get the nation moving, GOPO Joint Health has teamed up with Katie Knapton, a chartered physiotherapist with over 30 years of musculoskeletal experience, to develop a targeted 12-Week Flex and Mobility Plan, focusing on the upper and lower body.
Utilising Katie’s expertise, the plan comprises six exercises and stretches including, a squat, shoulder taps and hip flexor stretches, intended to be practiced at least three times a week.
“ Maintaining healthy and flexible joints is key to help perform daily living activities,” Katie says.
“Implementing both strengthening and stretching exercises ensures that your muscles have the right amount of tension so that they’re strong enough to support you and your movements, whilst enabling your body to easily move through the full range of motion.”
By incorporating simple stretches and exercises into your daily routine, in addition to taking GOPO Joint Health, you can live the life you love. You can download a copy of the plan here.
Four ways to feel fitter
For additional ways to help feel fitter, flexible and more mobile, try Katie’s top tips:
1. Try a class: Look for ways to support your flexibility that fit easily into your routine, whether that be attending regular yoga or Pilates classes or adding specific supporting movements into your workout.
2. Daily stretching: Try to spend 10-15 minutes per day stretching. You could add a few cool down stretches to your workout or just practice some movements whilst waiting for the kettle to boil!
3. Pay attention to your body: Don’t push yourself – movements can be adapted depending on your ability.
4. Stay hydrated: It is essential to drink adequate water and stay hydrated. Water is an important component of the synovial fluid found in your joints.
Supplement support
Whilst regular targeted exercises can help support overall flexibility, a supplement may help to maintain joint health from the inside out. The GOPO Joint Health range contains specially cultivated naturally sourced rose-hip with a uniquely high level of GOPO.
The galactolipid, GOPO, has been studied in several scientific trials and is retained in the highest available levels thanks to a special patented process. Rose-hip may play a valuable role in the maintenance of joints and joint tissues.
GOPO Joint Health is available from Boots, Amazon , Tesco and independent chemists and retailers nationwide. Visit the GOPO website for more information.