Top 5 Reasons Mobility Matters For Cops

Apr 30, 2023
police officer by cop car

 

The importance of flexibility, mobility and efficient movement patterns in occupational performance can not be overstated.

 

Being a police officer is a physically demanding job that requires officers to be on their feet for long periods of time, maneuver their body in kit, perform quick (and heavy) movements, and (obviously) respond to emergencies that require quick and precise action.

 

[Free Download] Top 10 Mid-Shift Movements for LEOs 

 

To perform at their best, police officers need to have good mobility, flexibility, a great foundation of strength and solid movement patterns.

 

 

Here’s why mobility matters for police officers and how it affects occupational performance:

 

Reduced Risk of Injury:

Good mobility helps reduce the risk of injury by allowing officers to move with proper technique and control. Poor mobility can lead to compensatory movements, which increase the risk of injury. By maintaining good mobility, officers can perform their duties with less strain on their bodies, reducing the risk of injury over time. 

 

Improved Physical Performance:

Good mobility allows officers to perform physical tasks more efficiently, which is essential in emergency situations. By being able to move freely and without restriction, especially fully kitted, officers can react quickly and effectively to any situation, whether it be chasing down a suspect, performing CPR, or controlling a combative individual.

 

[Free Download] Top 10 Mid-Shift Movements for LEOs 

 

Better Endurance:

Good mobility helps officers maintain good posture, reducing fatigue and improving endurance. By being able to move efficiently, officers can perform their duties for longer periods of time without feeling exhausted.

 

Reduced Stress and Tension:

Good mobility helps reduce stress and tension in the body, allowing officers to perform their duties with less discomfort and fatigue. When officers move with proper mobility, they use less energy, which can reduce the physical and mental strain of the job.

 

Getting Stronger in the Gym:

Mobility is the foundation of building strength and being faster. If you move WELL, you are likely to move MORE weight and be able to utilize progressive overload to get stronger more efficiently than someone who is lacking mobility and strong movement patterns. 

 

 

Mobility is a crucial aspect of occupational performance for police officers. By reducing the risk of injury, improving physical performance, increasing endurance, and reducing stress and tension, good mobility helps officers perform their duties at a higher level and stay healthy in the process.

 

MAKE TIME

 

To maintain good mobility, police officers should incorporate regular stretching and mobility exercises into their routine, as well as address any underlying mobility issues with a healthcare professional.

 

[Free Download] Top 10 Mid-Shift Movements for LEOs 

 

Focusing on mobility work for as little as 10 minutes a few times each week can make an impactful difference in your occupational performance as well as reduce pain and increase strength.