Consistent physical activity is crucial to any weight management plan, but fitness looks different for many people.
Imagine the last time you stepped inside a gym or fitness facility. You may have noticed that some people seem to be “pros” and give off an air of confidence during their workouts. These people have likely been engaged in exercise for quite some time, and they’ve recognized how to challenge and train their body to meet their goals.
On the other hand, many individuals aren’t at that step quite yet. Exercise may still be new to them, and getting used to a consistent and appropriate routine can take time and effort. If you’ve recently begun your journey with weight and health, perhaps you fall into this category.
Exercise Safety: Getting Back to the Basics
Exercising too quickly, wearing the wrong attire or “overdoing it” can be recipes for a bad workout. If you’re unsure of how to make the most of our workout, consider these key tips:
- Bring Along the Right Attire – This means appropriate shoes and clothing you feel comfortable in. You may want to bring along a hair tie, sweat band or other accessory.
- Stretch it Out – Make sure you stretch all areas of your body to prevent bodily injuries such as torn muscles.
- Warm-up – Don’t go all-in too quickly. If you’re aiming to do a 30 minute run, for example, start with a brisk walk or a short jog.
- Hydrate During Your Workout – Don’t be afraid to take short breaks and fill-up on water or another fluid packed with electrolytes. Learn more about the benefits of hydration by CLICKING HERE.
- Read All Exercise Equipment – If you’re using fitness equipment you’re unfamiliar with, make sure you read the instructions first. This is critical for preventing falls, slip-ups or injuries from weighted machines.
- Listen to Your Body Carefully – Your body will tell you when it’s time to slow down, speed up or stop altogether. Listen carefully to minimize any safety risk.
- Cool-off – When it’s time to finish your workout, don’t quit cold-turkey. Ease yourself into a slow and steady stop to prevent your body from experiencing post-exercise shock.
You may be tempted to just “get it done already” when it comes to exercise, but know that exercise safety is key! You want your body to be healthy and well-adjusted so you can continue on with your fitness routine.
