Ground to Stand Movements

At SIM we love to move often, move well and move differently because movement is an essential component of healthy living, and underpins our physical and athletic performance. It is easy to fall into bad habits, get a bit lazy and stick to the basics when we go to the gym, focusing on the same exercises, machines and movements we always use.

We like to vary the way we move, and load movement so that we can adapt in different ways. We have a fantastic ability to learn, even as we age, but for some reason we often choose not to and fall into the same movement routines.

Ground-to-stand movements, which involve transitioning from a seated or lying position on the ground to standing, are an incredibly important element in a SIM training program, for several reasons related to both performance and longevity goals:

1. Functional Strength: These movements involve multiple muscle groups, including the core, legs, and upper body. They help build functional strength that can improve everyday activities such as getting up from a chair, sitting down, and moving around.
2. Balance and Coordination: Ground-to-stand movements require balance and coordination to execute properly. Improving these aspects can help prevent falls and injuries, especially as people age.
3. Mobility and Flexibility: These movements help maintain and improve mobility and flexibility in the joints, which can decrease the risk of injury and improve overall movement quality.
4. Muscle Activation: Transitioning from ground to standing activates various muscle groups throughout the body, including stabilising muscles that are often neglected in other types of training.
5. Cardiovascular Health: Ground-to-stand movements can also be cardiovascular exercises, particularly when done repeatedly or at a high intensity. This can improve heart health and endurance.
6. Aging and Longevity: The ability to easily transition from the ground to standing is a predictor of longevity and quality of life, especially in older adults. It can indicate good overall health and functional ability.
7. Improved Athletic Performance: For athletes, these movements can improve agility, power, and the ability to quickly transition between different positions, which is important in many sports.
8. Body Awareness: These movements require awareness of body position and movement patterns, which can translate to better form and technique in other exercises and activities.

So if you find you are grunting and groaning a bit each time you get up and down from the floor, Or feel back pain and knee pain when you are doing simple activities or playing with the kids it may be time to Incorporate ground-to-stand movements in your training program. They can help you improve functional fitness and overall well-being, making daily activities easier and reducing the risk of feeling like a 90 yr old at 45!