06/09/2026
Most people over 40 can’t pass this mobility challenge.
Can you get up off the floor without using your hands?
It sounds simple, but this ability is strongly connected to mobility, balance, coordination, lower body strength, and confidence moving through different positions.
The good news is that this skill can be trained.
Start by spending more time on the ground. Sit on the floor while watching TV, reading, or stretching. Explore different positions like cross-legged sitting, side sitting, kneeling, deep squats, and seiza. For many people, a few months of regular ground sitting can improve mobility, proprioception, and comfort moving close to the floor.
Next, practice getting up using your hands as training wheels. Use a chair, a wall, or the floor for assistance while you build strength and coordination.
Over time, work on your hip drive, lunges, kneeling positions, ankle mobility, and leg strength. Eventually you’ll find yourself getting up from a kneeling position, a deep squat, a roll, or even seiza without needing your hands at all.
It’s not easy, but it’s one of the most practical movement skills you can develop as you age.
Can you do it? Let me know how you got up.