With the warmer weather upon us. More and more people are wanting to get outside and partake in some form of physical fitness.  [1]Being active can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce blood pressure, build strong bones, relieve stress, and maintain flexibility and good posture.

Recreational sport is a great way to enjoy the many benefits of physical activity whether you pick up a hockey stick, golf club, racquet, or paddle, get on a bike, or put on your running shoes! The important thing is to get moving.

Tip 1: Warm-Up

Before jumping in the pool, hitting the field or picking up a golf club, make sure to take your time to warm-up. Your warm-up should include, gentle stretching, dynamic stretching and range of motion exercises, as well as a brisk walk or easy jog to loosen and warm the muscles and joints.

Tip 2: Learn the Proper Technique

Make sure to get some help to learn the proper technique for your sport from the beginning. Using the wrong sport- specific technique can create incorrect muscle memory and can make it difficult to break bad habits. Poor technique can also put excess stress on joints and muscles leading to injuries.

Tip 3: Use the Right Equipment

Having the right equipment can make all the difference.  It is important to make sure your equipment is the right fit, height and capacity for you to avoid a sport- related injury. Talk to someone who specializes in your activity of interest and have the equipment professionally fitted and checked before starting out.

Tip 4: Avoid Over-Training

Too much. Too fast. Too soon. Over-training is one of the most common causes of recreational athletic injuries. Take your time and work up to it slowly before pushing yourself too hard. Remember – rest is as important as training. It is important to build in rest days to allow your body a chance to recover so that you can continue to perform optimally.

Tip 5: Treat Injuries Promptly

If you suffer an injury or experience pain that lasts longer than your usual post-workout soreness, consult a chiropractor to have it assessed so that you can get back your training or activity as soon as possible.

Keep in mind that Canada’s chiropractors work with individuals participating in all levels of activity from recreational to professional sports teams and Olympic athletes. A chiropractor can help maximize your muscle and joint function for years to come.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us by visiting our web site at:

www.drfrederickchiropractic.com

or

Contact us: Phone #: (519) 472-8700 or

Email: drjessalynnfrederick@gmail.com

 

[1] https://chiropractic.on.ca/public/self-management/exercise-safely/?term=therapeutic-exercises