Whether you work out regularly or are looking to get back into the habit, preventing injury when exercising is important.
What are some key ways you can avoid injuries when working out?
Check with your doctor
While it may be tempting to just grab the exercise mat, put on a YouTube video and get moving; step number one should be speaking with your doctor. Your physician can tell you if you are healthy enough to exercise, how hard to push yourself at first, what types of exercise will best benefit you and any modifications you may require.
Start with a personal trainer
Even if you don’t hire a personal trainer for the long term, a few sessions will allow them to ensure that you are using the correct form and not unknowingly risking injury. Consider contacting them again if you’re training for an event, want to try something new or want to increase your exercise regime.
Never skip the warmup
Warmup and cooldown routines are easy to dismiss as extras rather than integral elements of a workout but they are key to preventing injury.
Through these exercises, blood flow to the muscles is increased, helping get them ready to go or helping them relax as you end a session. As an added benefit, they can also help you mentally gear up for and wind down from a workout.
Wear the right gear
You don’t need to rush out and spend hundreds of dollars on the latest fitness-friendly shirt, but you should consider investing in quality shoes and anything specific to your training program.
Consult the staff at a specialty store and be absolutely sure that your shoes are the correct fit and provide an appropriate amount of support. This will prevent both painful irritations, such as blisters, as well as more serious injuries.
Stay hydrated
Stay hydrated throughout your practice in order to maintain more energy and avoid becoming tired or dizzy to the point that you could make mistakes. The longer and more intense the workout, the more you need to drink.
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