Moving Your Workout Indoors
As the temperature begins to decline, it becomes increasingly dangerous to continue exercising outdoors, especially for those who suffer from prior injuries. In icy conditions, slipping and falling is a normal occurrence, however, the recovery process is usually longer and a lot more intense than that of a summer injury.
To prevent possible injuries or the further progression of the ones that you may already have, it is strongly recommended that all exercise activities are moved indoors at least until the weather heats up a bit.
Be Aware Of Bodily Changes
Not only do you have to be aware of any slippery patches on the ground, but also note that our bodies naturally react differently in colder temperatures. Those with chronic joint-related issues can attest that the oncoming of winter can cause major aggravations as well as stiff joints. Also, note that that the cold weather often causes the blood vessels to constrict, so as a result, you may experience poor circulation which can lead to more serious conditions.
How To Stay Safe While Exercising In The Winter
Being properly informed on injury prevention is the key to staying safe during winter workout sessions. Most importantly, you will want to temporarily refrain from outdoor exercises, but here are a few other precautionary methods to consider:
- Warm up thoroughly
- Stretch afterward to prevent injury and improve both flexibility and resilience
- Drink plenty of water whether you feel thirsty or not (dehydration may not be as noticeable in cold temperature)
- Wear ankle pads and comfortable socks for warmth and protection
- Get regular massages and never miss a chiropractic visit
The bottom line is if you choose to exercise outdoors, you are putting your health at risk. Limit your chances of taking the fall that may lead you to another hospital visit by working out indoors so that your body can adjust to the warmth. Also, remember to pay extra attention to stiff muscles and joints by adopting a more involved warm-up regimen so that your body will be able to better withstand and prevent any complications that may arise.
At Orthopaedic Specialty Group, we offer a wide variety of treatments to help our patients deal with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, chronic pain, sports injuries, and more. Contact us today to schedule your appointment (203) 337-2600!