August Fitness Tips

  • Published
  • By Michelle Walker
  • 169th Force Support Squadron

A few tips to exercise safely

Exercising regularly has wide-ranging physical, emotional and social health benefits. You need to exercise safely to remain healthy and injury-free. If it’s safe and painless, you’re more likely to stick to it! Safety is about using common sense, understanding basic techniques and listening to your body.

Here are some tips to stay safe and injury-free:

  1. Be aware of your body. Think about how the particular exercise is making you feel. If something doesn’t feel right, stop immediately and seek medical advice.
  2. Warm up and cool down. Try slow stretches and go through the motions of your sport or activity before starting. Cool down with slow stretching.
  3. Pace yourself. Have at least 1 recovery day each week to rest.
  4. Mix it up. Try other sports and exercises to reduce the risk of overtraining.
  5. Stay hydrated. You can lose around 2 quarts of fluid for every hour of exercise; so drink water before, during and after a session.
  6. Be weather aware. Take it easier in hot weather and wear clothing and sunscreen to protect yourself from the elements.
  7. Do it right. Try to get the technique right from the beginning, to ensure you are using your muscles correctly.
  8. Check your gear. Make sure your shoes and equipment fit properly and are right for the activity. Look after your equipment and check it regularly for safety.