Bollywood actor and fitness enthusiast Shilpa Shetty has ushered in the new year of 2026 by throwing a quick mobility challenge to her fans and followers. Emphasising a foundational yet often overlooked aspect of fitness, Shetty took to Instagram to highlight the critical role of mobility in everyday life.
"Hip hip… no hooray? But mobility is so important for daily movement and quality of life," Shilpa Shetty stated in her post on January 11, 2026. She elaborated, "It helps reduce stiffness, improves flexibility and keeps the joints happy. So if you can get through this, you are already winning!"
Mobility vs. Stretching: What Experts Say
Dr Supriya Patil, Consultant Physiotherapy at Jaslok Hospital & Research Centre, clarifies the distinction between mobility work and traditional stretching. While stretching primarily aims to lengthen muscles, mobility exercises train joints to move actively through their full range of motion. This approach combines flexibility, strength, and neural control, leading to more significant long-term benefits for physical performance and overall well-being.
"When joints move regularly through their natural range, they remain better lubricated and more resilient," explained Dr Patil. Mobility work promotes the circulation of synovial fluid, reduces friction, and helps tissues adapt. The result is smoother, more coordinated motion that makes daily tasks like bending, walking, or climbing stairs easier and less strenuous.
Tangible Benefits: From Pain Relief to Injury Prevention
One of the most immediate rewards of a consistent mobility practice is the reduction of stiffness and discomfort. Dr Shreyas Kathrani, HOD of Physiotherapy at Jaslok Hospital, points out that sedentary lifestyles, repetitive tasks, and poor posture lead to tight muscles and restricted joints. Structured mobility routines gently challenge the body to release tension and restore natural movement patterns, offering lasting relief from chronic tightness and work-related strain.
Furthermore, Dr Patil underscores mobility's crucial role in preventing injuries. Many injuries stem not from a lack of strength but from poor movement control or limited joint range. When a joint is stiff, other body parts compensate, raising the risk of strain. Mobility training builds stability and coordination, preparing the body to handle physical stress, sudden movements, and changes in direction more safely.
Why Mobility Becomes Non-Negotiable With Age
The importance of maintaining joint mobility escalates as we grow older. Dr Patil notes that reduced joint movement is closely linked to balance problems, loss of independence, and a higher risk of falls. Regular mobility exercises are fundamental for healthy ageing, as they help preserve strength, balance, and coordination, enabling individuals to maintain an active and independent lifestyle.
In an era dominated by sedentary habits, integrating mobility exercises—as championed by Shilpa Shetty—offers a practical and powerful strategy to safeguard the body's functional health. Whether for athletic performance or simple daily comfort, enhanced mobility allows the body to move with confidence and efficiency.
Disclaimer: This information is based on public domain sources and expert inputs. Always consult with a qualified fitness or medical practitioner before beginning any new exercise regimen.
