Before I start myself or my students to move I am a huge believer in both joint mobilty and joint preperation as a great way to move the body before getting into the training. There are so many people with injuries out there in capoeira; you've all seen the multitude of people in wrist braces, ankle wraps, knee braces and more. What are they doing that is making them need these things...or better yet what are they not doing?
Joint mobility is taking a limb with control through its full range of motion. Range of motion refers to the distance and direction a joint can move to its full potential. By using joint mobility and moving toward our full range of motion we want to gain a smooth and contolled movement with our joints. This is a great way to warm up and lube all the joints for the days training. It also helps to prevent against musculoskeletal injuries while you work, not to mention gaining a bit of coordination to boot.
Joint preparation is a way of conditioning different areas of the body, such as the elbows, wrists, knees and ankles, so they can be prepared to take the inevitable stress of the unexpected. It will happen sooner or later, whether by simply slipping or in a takedown. Working joints in an improper alignment will help strengthen them giving you more insurance throughout your other movements. Taking this training in a slow and progressive manner will benefit tremendously and help avoid the small or possible large injuries that can prevent you from training.
Take care of your body by making joint mobility and preparation part of your daily practice. You'll start to feel and see the results. Move it or lose it...
