Staying physically active is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. Exercising helps you manage your weight, strengthen bones and muscles, reduce your risk of disease, and improve your mental outlook. People who exercise regularly are, quite simply, healthier and happier.
So now that you’ve decided to add exercise to your daily routine, play it safe. Even athletes and fitness enthusiasts occasionally overdo it and end up with an injury.
Be smart
Follow these tips for exercising safely, whether you’re at the gym or at home:
• Discuss your fitness plans in advance with your physician or physical therapist. They can help you design a workout plan that’s right for you. It could be as simple as walking, as relaxing as yoga, or as aerobic as swimming.
• Choose the time of day you feel the most rested and motivated, and stick to your plan.
• Make sure you are properly equipped. This includes your choice of shoes and clothing, weights and exercise equipment you use.
• Warm up before you start, and do it slowly. Pre-workout stretches are not guaranteed to prevent injury or pain. However, they can definitely help you ease into your routine. Try lunges, squats, arm circles and jumping jacks.
• Drink water before, during and after your workout. It is critical that you stay hydrated when you’re burning calories and moving your body.
• Strike a balance between strength training, flexibility, and cardio exercises.
• Don’t exercise when you’re ill, tired or in pain.
Cypress Pointe Surgical Hospital’s expert staff can answer your questions and guide you in creating a safe and healthy fitness plan. Get more information here.