Ankle, Hip, and Thoracic Mobility for Catchers

Keeping with the baseball theme, this week's article is by Joey Wolfe.  The article discusses some of the most essential areas that catchers need mobility: ankles, hips, and thoracic spine.  Eric Cressey has done extensive review on thoracic mobility for athletes but Joey does a nice job of giving specific reasons for why catchers need ankle and hip mobility.  Additionally, multiple corrective exercises are discussed and videotaped for the viewers convenience.  

One of the key ideas that is worth noting is how stiff ankles can produce increased stress in the hips.  His point speaks to the regional interdependence that as strength coaches and physical therapists we must always consider, per individual and sport of course.  

Lastly, the video at the end of the article puts all of the points together when Joey shows specifically how limited mobility in one of those three areas (hips, ankles, t-spine) can greatly affect a catcher's positions.  

As Joey emphasizes perfectly:
"Anyone can add size and strength, but if your movement is compromised in the process, then it is almost certain that you will see a decrease in performance. Spend some time doing these mobility exercises before, during (preferable) or after your workouts."

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