Getting Into Shape

Did your New Year’s resolution include getting back into shape?

Regina is no different than any other locale it seems when it comes to New Year’s resolutions. “This year, I am going got get into better shape, exercise more, be more physically active….” It is by far the most common New Year’s resolution topic that people make. Any gym will tell you that their business skyrockets in January with new people looking to fulfill that resolution.

It is a great resolution to make, it is an investment in your overall health. It will increase your fitness level, improve your heart health, plus strengthen your muscles and joints to name just a few benefits.

Although the goal is worthy, one of the common issues we see this time of year at our HealthWorks Chiropractic Regina Avenue location is over exertion injuries from overdoing things in the first few weeks at the gym. Overworking your muscles and joints will often lead to injury when you are not used to the activity or being a little overzealous with your goals before your body is ready for it.

Here are a few tips to ensure your workout goes smoothly and prevent future injuries.

Talk to Dr. Khan, your HealthWorks chiropractor or other healthcare provider

If you are dealing with an injury or strain from your new workout routine, speak to your healthcare provider and have your injury addressed to prevent further injury. Review your fitness goals and workout with your chiropractor. As difficult as it is to admit, most of us are not what we used to be a few years ago. Consequently, our bodies change as should our exercise routines. Evaluating your exercise plan can help increase your chances of meeting your fitness goals by making sure you are doing appropriate and safe exercises for your situation. It is common to dive right in, and try to become the athlete you were years ago overnight. Keep in mind, it took a while to get out of shape and it will take time to get back into shape. By working slowly, with the correct fitness plan, you will build strength at a rate that is less risky for injury and will increase your chances of sticking with your resolution.

Stretch, warm up and cool down

The importance of warming up and stretching before your workout is well known. By warming up the muscles through movement, you prepare them for the upcoming exercise. Cold tight muscles can be more prone to injury.

Stretch after you work out and cool your muscles down. It can be very helpful in reducing soreness and prevent tightening up later on.

Listen to your body

Know the difference between a good soreness, something that is expected with working out, and pain. Pain is your body’s way of saying something is wrong. If your gain is coming with pain, listen to your body. Look at it this way, “No discomfort, no gain” instead of “no pain, no gain”. If you are experiencing ongoing pain call HealthWorks Chiropractic to get your injury addressed. Adjust your workout to stay below pain keeping it in the “therapeutic discomfort” level.

Mix things up

Muscles need a recovery period after a workout. Have a varied routine that focuses on all the muscle groups of your body over a period of time. There is a tendency to concentrate only on certain muscle groups and ignore others. Keep the workout balanced to avoid strain and overuse injuries.

Know when you need help

HealthWorks Chiropractic has healthcare providers to help you when you need it. HealthWorks Chiropractic Regina Avenue location has massage therapy and chiropractic to assist you when you need it. Let your resolution of getting into shape be a positive one where you can reach you fitness goals and become more active.

Please hit the share icons below!