There is no way around it. The days are getting shorter and the temperature is falling. Winter is on it’s way.
While the shorter days are a bummer, no one says you cannot have fun in the winter.
Skiing, snow shoeing and outdoor paddle tennis are just a few of the fantastic winter activities available to us around here.
With that said, here are 7 things you can do to get yourself ready for some winter fun.
- Get your butt in gear. Most winter activities require a base of cardiovascular fitness. If you have let yourself go, get moving. Running, walking, elliptical are all great choices.
- Strength train your legs. Most winter sports require tremendous leg strength. See your personal trainer or ask me for advice on good leg exercises.
- Stretch. Let’s get some length into those muscles. Especially leg, butt and back muscles.
- Hydrate. One of the leading issues in my office is dehydration. Dehydration leads to tight muscles, tight muscles lead to injuries.
- Work on your core. The better condition your core is in, the better you can handle all that winter throws at you. Not sure where to start? See your personal trainer or ask me when you come into the office.
- Take a look at your equipment. Properly maintained equipment is huge in terms of injury prevention. Please do not wait until you get to the slopes to find out your binding is broken on your ski.
- Visit your favorite chiropractor! Honestly, what did you think I was going to say! In all seriousness, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
The first few weeks of the winter season always brings a rash of patients that have hurt themselves doing activities they haven’t done in 8+ months. Keep these 7 tips in mind to give yourself the best shot at staying injury free.
See you outside!
