If you try to increase your exercise too quickly you can get hurt. While it is important to exercise, it is more to exercise safely. As you start your exercise routine, use these six tips to stay safe and injury free.
Pay Attention to Your Body
Your body will give you cues as to how much you can handle. If anything hurts, you should stop right away, as pain is a signal letting you know that something is wrong. It is normal to experience a little bit of shortness of breath and pain as you work out your body, but if you feel excessively fatigued or strained, slow down. If you are sick, take it easy, or take the day off.
Warm Up
Before you begin your exercise, do a quick ten minute warm up to get your heart pumping and blood flowing. A warm up will prepare your body for exercise by loosening your joints, and gradually stretching your muscles. Doing a warm up is the best way to prevent injury.
Stay Hydrated
All throughout the day and during your exercise, make sure that you drink enough water. If you are thirsty, you have already started to become dehydrated. You should drink ½ ounce to 1 ounce of water for every pound that you weigh. That amount changes based on the outside temperature as well as how strenuous your activity is. Also, avoid drinking soda, as it actually dehydrates you.
Be Smart
When exercising, make sure that you properly take care of your body. Don’t push yourself too hard or sacrifice good form to finish a workout. Make sure that you dress properly for each occasion, especially if you will be exercising outside. Don’t exercise when it is too hot outside, and always let someone know where you are going in case something happens to you.
Be Consistent
It is important to spread out your exercises throughout the week instead of trying to shove it all into one day. Create an exercise schedule and stick to it. Make sure that you include a recovery day in that schedule to give your body time to heal.
Use the Right Equipment
Your shoes and other equipment should fit properly and be right for the activity. Don’t use anything that is worn out or broken, as you may injure yourself. Always make sure that you know how to properly use any equipment before you use it.
