Wednesday, February 4, 2009

How To Remain Safe When Exercising

By Kat Wendersen

There are those who believe that for workouts to really work, pain is absolutely necessary. However, while a certain amount of discomfort is normal, especially when you're going through a completely new exercise regimen, it is important to pay attention to pain. This is because of the fact that pain is a means for the body to signal that something is going wrong.

A good workout routine will test you, but shouldn't damage you. As muscles get used, especially somewhat beyond their usual range, lactic acid, micro-tears and other physiological changes occur that result in muscles being built up stronger than before.

It is always wise to consult an expert. Incessant pains, aches, and soreness could mean you are doing something wrong. Your technique might be incorrect or you are might be over-extending the use of some muscles or worse, you have a medical problem that needs immediate attention.

Work up to any vigorous routine slowly. How slowly will vary from person to person, depending on age, experience, prior exercise routines and overall fitness. Get muscles warm and limber before cranking it up. Most strains and rips result from being too cold and not stretching, or extending more than you're ready for.

It is advisable to do a 15-minute warm up before going into your workout. What warm up exercises can you do? Jog in place or do jumping jacks. Get your muscles warmed up, lubricated, and stretched first. Doing so will prevent torn cartilages and other injuries. Keep in mind that injuries take a long time to heal.

Do not be fooled by inexperienced instructors who tell you that you have to be able to finish a 5-mile run only two weeks after you underwent surgery, or survived an injury or some other debilitating condition. Allow yourself to undergo physical therapy, which can help you restore you back to good health.

Every person committed to fitness will want to push him or herself to achieve excellence. But an attitude that leads to overdoing it is counter-productive to your goal. You're working to improve or maximize health and overall body tone and strength - not proving you are 'mentally tough'.

Before you begin anything that is entirely new, make sure to ask the opinion of a well-trained instructor. This will help ensure that you are using the appropriate technique, which will then reduce the likelihood of injury. Ask how to use machines appropriately before trying it. It is better to ask questions, after all, rather than getting injured in not knowing.

Scout your surrounding before beginning your workout. You do not want to crash against the wall or bump into somebody while you do your routine. Eyeball the area where you jog. Know the terrain and surface condition. Watch out for cars and other people around you. Be aware of your surroundings and keep your reflexes active.

Stay within your comfort zone as you gradually expand it. One of the foremost reasons people give up on workouts is injuries produced by working beyond their capacity. That makes working out no longer fun. Building up, while you build out, to increase your ability to do more, faster will keep you going for years to come.

Exercise some common sense by asking questions, seeking advice, and not forcing your body beyond its limits. At the end of the day, this is the only way to stay healthy. - 16004

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