Are You Beginning An Exercise
Program?
Many of us are trying to make an improvement in our lifestyles.
And for many of us, this means starting to exercise.
Getting started on the right foot can make the
difference between a long lasting, successful exercise program and
one that fails after the first few attempts.
Once you have visited our clinic for a checkup,
you should have a better understanding of your body's needs. As you
progress into your exercise program, your physical condition will
change and so will your physical needs. Be sure to keep chiropractic
as an integral part of any exercise system.
With so many different forms of recreation or
exercise available to us, it is difficult to establish a standard
pattern of introduction. However, regardless of your particular
interest, the key is to start slow.
If you are one of those individuals who are
starting to exercise after a long layoff, rushing in could result in
muscular or skeletal damage that would throw the whole plan into a
tail-spin.
Don't wait until the last minute to begin loosening
up. Whatever your objectives, you will be using muscles that should
be gradually stretched. Starting early can allow for a comfortable,
natural stretching of the muscles and prevent injury.
Remember that your heart, lungs and cardiovascular
system will also need a period of adjustment. Don't push yourself.
The results of overdoing at an early stage could be painful or fatal
in extreme circumstances.
Rest! When you become tired, take time to sit down,
put your feet up and rest. Until your body becomes accustomed to the
new demands being made on it, you may notice muscular aches or
periods of extended fatigue. The soreness can often be eased by
taking warm baths or by the passage of time, but remember pain is an
indication that something is wrong. If the pain persists, come see
us.
You should also include a good diet, as what you eat
fuels the body. You wouldn't think of running a high performance
engine on a low grade fuel. Give your body at least the same
consideration.
If you are a first time exerciser, it might be
wise to begin your program with an organized group, such as those
offered by adult education programs or YMCA or YWCA.
Recreation and exercise are designed to offer you physical
fitness, freedom from depression and an opportunity to free your
body from the pressures of the day. A well organized program,
coupled with regular spinal maintenance checks at the clinic, can
ensure that you receive all the rewards of your efforts.
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