Safely Returning to Outdoor Activities

With spring on the horizon you might be thinking it’s time to start dusting off the old bike/roller blades/running shoes so that you can start taking advantage of the longer days and soon to be warmer temperatures.

As with you, I’ve begun to picked up many of the activities I let fall always when the snow started to fall. It feels great to be back out on my bike but at the same time my muscles are definitely complaining a bit.

With increased activities in mind I thought I would send a quick message to give you some helpful hints for returning to your more active spring/summer selves without causing yourself injury.

1/ Start slowly

It is better to pickup activities slowly and gently.

If you are thinking of long bike rides in the country side with the birds chirping and the sun shining, take a step back. Start by hitting your local bike trails and don’t push yourself too hard. Take 45 minutes to at a gentle pace a few times a week before any major outings.

This applies to returning to any activities you have taken a break from over the winter months (running, outdoor sports etc).

2/ Remember to stay hydrated

At this time of year, it’s easy to forget to drink enough fluids as we are exercising. With the temperatures slowly warming, we don’t perspire as much as in warmer months. This makes it easy to over look the fact that we are still a lot of water as we exercise and we still must replenish it as we exercise to keep our bodies running smoothly.

3/ Stretch and then Stretch some more!!!!!!!!!!!

The most common cause of injury at this time of year can be attributed to lack of stretching after exercise.

Many of us are so excited to be back outside at this time of year that we pack our every spare moment getting out and getting busy. We tend to forget that after putting our bodies through more vigorous exercise then it’s used to, we need to stop and take the time to stretch our muscles back out.

It is very important to make stretching a part of your workout routine rather then just treating it as an after thought. Plan on giving yourself at least half an hour of gentle stretching. It will benefit you more then you might think possible.

I’m looking forward to treating you again soon!!!!