Are you ready to kick your sedentary habits to the curb and embrace an active lifestyle? Before you lace up your sneakers or grab your yoga mat, it’s crucial to know your body and understand healthy body mechanics. The below tips will help you stay injury-free while making the most of an active lifestyle.
Don’t Forget the Warm-Up
A warm-up is just as important as the workout itself. A few minutes of light cardio to get the blood flowing and stretches to loosen your joints and muscles will help your workout be more effective.
Posture Positioning
Good posture isn’t just for appearance, it’s essential for injury prevention. Think of a string on top of your head pulling you straight up. Whether you’re sitting at your desk or hitting the trail, remember to stand tall, keep your shoulders back, and keep your core engaged.
Let Your Legs Do the Lifting
Think of the last time you lifted the laundry basket, those groceries in your trunk, that Amazon package on the front steps, or even lifting weights. Did you use your legs or your back? Always use your leg muscles to do the heavy lifting. Bend your knees, not your back, and maintain a straight spine while keeping the heavy object close to your body.
Post Workout Cool-Down
You started the workout with a warmup, and now finish strong with a cool down to help your body recover and prevents muscle soreness. Spend a few minutes stretching, focusing on the muscle groups you worked during your activity.
Listen to Your Body
You know your body best! Pay attention to it. If something hurts, take a break. Don’t push through pain. Rest and recover.
Mix It Up
Ever feel sore or tension in areas of your body you didn’t even know existed? Variety or trying different activities can prevent overuse injuries and keep your body limber as a whole. Switch between cardio, strength training, focused body areas, and flexibility exercises to challenge yourself and keep things fun.
Hydrate!
Water, water, and more water! Have enough H2O with you to stay hydrated before, during, and after your workouts.
Get Your Sleep On
Adequate sleep will allow enough time for your body to recover and repair. Quality sleep can help you stay energized, refuel, and be prepared for the next workout.
Staying active with healthy body mechanics will ensure you enjoy the journey without constant aches and pains. Lace up those sneakers, grab your water bottle, keep your body mechanics in check – from posture and sleep to warming up and cooling down – and go reap the benefits of an active lifestyle!