Exercise safety… what’s that? Is it just about making sure you don’t run too fast on a treadmill or lift more weight than you can handle? Why is it something you should really care about?
Exercise Safety Matters: Here’s Why
When many people get started on their weight management journey, they do so with the best intentions. Every goal and every action begins with the idea that this weight “has to come off,” or that this weight “has to stay off.”
When we take action out of desperation, we often rush through the process with little to no regard for our personal safety or well-being. Our minds are set on getting the work done as quickly and as effectively as possible. This is especially true with exercise, and perhaps even more so because exercise is so commonly thought of as a dreaded chore or responsibility.
Unfortunately, when we rush through exercise or disregard the important details, we put ourselves at risk for physical injury. Our muscles, joints and bones are all at risk, and we might not be as nimble or indestructible as we think.
Key Safety Tips to Practice When You Exercise
Before every workout, you should stop and think about your SMART goals. Each movement should be well-thought out so as to reduce your risk for injury or burnout.
Consider these key safety tips:
- Warm up and Cool down – Always stretch, and try slow motions of your workout before turning up the intensity. As your workout comes to a close, slow down once again.
- Hydrate – Drink plenty of healthy fluids before, during and after your workout.
- Pace Yourself – You don’t want to ramp up pace, duration or intensity all at once.
- Check Your Gear – Make sure your shoes, clothing and workout equipment are all functioning properly. You’d be surprised at what little details can cause disruption.
- Check the Weather – Exercising outside? Be wary of rain, snow, wind, etc.
- Recover – Don’t be afraid to take rest days to give your muscles time to recover.
- Check Your Surroundings – If you’re out in nature, make sure your surroundings are safe. If you’re outside at night, make sure you stay in populated areas that are well lit, etc.
Conclusion
So many people don’t stop to consider that safety is important when you exercise. To decrease your risk for injury and make your workout as effective as possible, always consider the above suggestions before you get moving!
