Routine physical activity is one of the best investments you can make in your health. Adults who log 30 minutes or more of vigorous exercise five days a week have better lung function, heart health, and flexibility than those who do not. Despite the benefits, exercise can leave you vulnerable to injuries, including pulled muscles and pinched nerves, when not performed properly. You can protect yourself from these injuries by taking safety precautions and receiving regular chiropractic care. The team from Walch Chiropractic Center PC will not only treat you in their Leeds, AL, office, but they also have a few tips for preventing exercise-related injuries.

Beyond Chiropractic Care: 5 Tips for Avoiding Injury During Workouts

1. Warm Up

The majority of exercise-related injuries occur because the body is not properly warmed up. Taking five to 10 minutes at the start of each workout to jog, jump rope, or perform some dynamic stretching warms the muscles for more vigorous activity.

2. Use Proper Form

Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned athlete, it is imperative that you use proper form. Utilizing the correct form for certain exercises — especially weightlifting and strength training — protects the muscles and joints from injury. Learn the right way to do each task, and routinely check your posture and form in a mirror.

3. Make Slow & Steady Progress

Slow, incremental progress is the safest and most effective way to improve your overall athleticism. Rather than trying to set a new personal record each week, give yourself smaller goals. For example, add no more than one extra mile to your runs each week to avoid knee injuries or pulled muscles.

4. Stretch

Stretch for at least five minutes at the end of each workout. In addition to improving your flexibility, stretching relieves tense muscles and protects against future injuries.

5. Take Time to Recover

Going hard at the gym builds strength and burns fat, but you need to schedule recovery time, as well. Give your muscles a break by doing some light yoga or going for a slow-paced walk for your next workout. If you have recently experienced neck pain or back pain as a result of your exercise routine, seek out chiropractic care at least one day a week to help with pain management.

If you need chiropractic care in the Birmingham area, contact Walch Chiropractic Center PC at (205) 699-4433 to schedule an appointment. Their team specializes in injury rehabilitation, spinal adjustments, decompression traction, and other forms of pain management. To learn more about how they can help you, visit their website today.