In Conversation with Temi Nuga - why we should prioritise mobility

Temi competed at the British Classic Championships in September. She went into the competition injured, having fractured her back during training, in February. Despite the pain, she made the decision to compete. She hit a 170kg back squat, 105kg bench press, but then couldn’t lift 170kg in the deadlift. Her back was too painful. 

Despite it being an incredibly painful day for Temi, both physically and emotionally, “not being able to pick up the bar was the best thing that could have happened. It made me realise I actually need to take mobility seriously.” 

“Mobility is more important than lifting heavy.” This is what she holds on to when her motivation dips for her mobility exercises. 

Temi’s current routine

Temi is not training at all. This has taken some getting used to as training is a big part of her identity. She is still coaching classes and individual clients, so has had to adapt her coaching style. Unable to show the movements herself due to injury, she is explaining them more verbally and using cues. 

Temi has a team around her to help her recover from injury. A movement and rehabilitation specialist, a physio and a masseuse.

• Every day - Rehab and mobility. She has a series of exercises from her movement specialist that takes 30-40 minutes - for example, hip openers, learning how to brace, activating lats. She also uses various rollers to work on soft tissue; foam roller, lacrosse ball, golf ball and massage gun. 
• Every week - Sees her physio for more hands-on work.
• Every two weeks - Massage for soft tissue release.

Mobility before the injury 

“I’m paying the consequences for not prioritising mobility.”

In the past, Temi didn’t prioritise mobility. She was always in a hurry and on a schedule, so mobility was always last on the list. When Temi did have time for mobility she would do a pilates or yoga class, she particularly loved reformer pilates. 

Why prioritise mobility

“People don’t appreciate being able to move without pain.”

For the first time ever, Temi is prioritising mobility. She’s four weeks into her rehab programme. She wants to be able to move well as movement is life. There is no immediate gratification. It’s something you constantly need to work on. 

She now sees and understands the benefits of mobility. “Regardless of training, I will always prioritise mobility from now on.”

Follow Temi’s journey here.