Staying on track with a New Year’s workout resolution often isn’t easy. You may be making a major lifestyle change, and it takes commitment, dedication, and planning to succeed.
Unfortunately, the start of a new workout routine is also prime time for injuries, since you’re asking new things from your body. At Bahri Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida, we’d like to keep you in the gym and off the injured list.
We’ve gathered five ways to stop common workout injuries before they start.
The new year always carries the feeling of a fresh start. Besides your enthusiasm, you must have a plan for your new workout routine, including goals and progress steps along the way.
As well as your master target, something like “lose 30 pounds,” make smaller, achievable progress goals. Perhaps “lose 5 pounds,” or “increase to three workouts a week by February.”
Taking on too much, too soon, is a common symptom of enthusiasm that your body may be unable to handle. Visualize your resolution as a progression, not simply a goal.
You know your current condition and level of activity. You can’t simply engage at a new level. Workout progress isn’t a set of steps, but a gradual ramp.
The slope of the ramp depends on factors like health conditions and medical advice. It’s wise to speak with our doctors before beginning a workout plan so we can help you aim for success and avoid injuries.
Once upon a time, there were dress shoes and sneakers. Today, athletic footwear is incredibly specialized, so choose shoes that provide support for your workouts, whether they’re specialized for cross-training, running, or a sport.
Speak with our team or your personal trainer about the best way to achieve your fitness goals. Resistance bands may be a better option than weights for both results and avoiding injury. Use the expertise that surrounds you to your best advantage.
Workouts deplete your body of moisture and nutrients, so it’s important to replenish. Sports drinks and power bars may fill the occasional gap, but you can’t rely on them.
Water is the best hydrator, free of sugar and unnecessary extras. A diet full of fruits, whole grains, vegetables, and lean proteins provides the energy and nutrients to repair micro-injuries, a necessary part of the workout process, before they develop into repetitive strain injuries.
Both are essential to switch gears from rest to workout and back again. Light routines or easier exercises prepare your body for more intense activity, while light exercise after the meat of your workout promotes continued joint mobility.
Improved health through a workout resolution is smart. Remaining injury-free is even smarter. Contact Bahri Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Clinic to plan an effective, safe workout routine, or when injuries arise despite your best efforts. Call or click today to request your appointment.
