Laura is our Sports Therapist at Shefford Osteopathic Clinic. This time of year is a busy one for her! “I see lots of patients who choose to start a new exercise routine, especially at this time of year which is great!” she says. “However, the ‘too much too soon syndrome’ sets in very easily. This often causes unwanted niggles and injuries, preventing you from continuing your new activity and reaping the benefits that you deserve.”
Did you know that if you exercise too much you can actually gain weight – sometimes rapidly? In these circumstances, your increased cortisol level is the culprit. It can lead to increased weight (mainly in the face, chest and tummy areas), muscle weakness, depression and more.
Now, that’s not a cue to give up on exercise! Exercise is amazing, there are so many great benefits to it. Your body and mind will definitely thank you for it! However let’s bin your new crazy exercise routine that you can’t keep up forever… and consider the points below:
4 Great Tips for Long-Lasting Exercise Benefits
1. Walk don’t run. Yep you heard right. Walking is the best way to exercise without adding stress to your body or ruining your joints. Walk more every day, fit it into your daily routine and you’ll be de-stressing and getting fit while also enjoying the fresh air.
2. If it sounds crazy, it is! It’s as simple as that. No one wants to be in a puddle of their own sweat being screamed at by some crazy person pushing yourself to the limit every single time. That’s not fun and you will get injuries. Find a sustainable activity that you actually enjoy rather than a quick fix that won’t leave you feeling healthy in the slightest. Yoga? Boxing? Ballet? Give it a go!
3. Resting = results. Did you know that it is actually on your rest days when you become stronger, leaner and fitter? Your muscles need that chance to rebuild and recover. Don’t let anyone make you feel bad for taking a rest day. Rest is vital and you’ll be able to train better when you return. Make sure you get enough sleep each night and have 1-2 rest days per week. The perfect opportunity to book in for a sports therapy appointment (who doesn’t love a well-deserved massage?), do some light yoga, foam roller and stretching session, or a nice relaxing bath.
4. No couch potatoes! However, if you’re on your 4th rest day and haven’t moved from the sofa then it’s time for you to get up, get out and enjoy moving. Our bodies love to move. Just keep in mind that endless running on a treadmill or being shouted at by Mrs Trunchball isn’t necessary. Get outside and challenge your body to be stronger, leaner and more amazing.
Let Laura know what you discover – and if you do have any areas that start to become painful at any point pop in and get them sorted. Don’t put up with unnecessary aches and pains – live your life!