Winter Activity Tips While there is no shortage of fun activities for the colder weather, winter also brings snow for most of the country and with it comes the dreaded task of snow removal. Not only is it important to stretch and prepare your bodies for the cold-for shoveling or for fun activities-but it is also essential that you dress properly to protect yourself from low temperatures and wind exposure. Follow these tips to make it through the winter injury free: Warm-up with light aerobic activity such as jogging, biking or fast walking for 7-10 minutes and then complete the following stretches: Complete 10-15 squats. Complete 10-15 lunges on each leg. Do 5 knee-to-chest stretches with each leg to fight compression injuries caused by repetitive bouncing over the snow when sledding or tobogganing. To shovel safely, push the snow aside instead of lifting. If you need to lift, bend your knees, allowing the muscles of the legs and arms to do the work instead of your back. Do not throw snow over your shoulder or to the side. This requires twisting or turning motions that can cause injury. Take frequent breaks - a fatigued body asks for injury. Stop immediately and seek medical attention if you feel faint, dizzy or have chest pain. If, after a few days, you continue to feel soreness or muscle strain, it may be time to visit your local chiropractic office.
Posted on: Wed, 22 Jan 2014 17:19:16 +0000