The days are getting longer and Spring is waiting around the corner! The warmer temperatures and blooming buds get us excited. If the warmer weather looming ahead is also motivating you to “spring” into fitness, it may be smart to take things nice and easy – especially if you have been a winter couch potato since November. It is natural to get spring fever as many of us have been cooped up at home or stuck in a gym for weeks on end, but spring training can cause injury if you overdo it.
If you haven’t been exercising much, it will be important to monitor your level of exertion to give your body time to adjust. The American Academy of Orthopedic Specialists suggests that a good rule of thumb is to only increase training by ten percent each week. This helps to equip your body for the new demands and avoid injury. It is also suggested to mix up your exercise so you aren’t using the same muscles, tendons and joints every time you do it. Create a week’s plan with running, weights, swimming, cycling and yoga for example. “No pain, no gain” is a mantra often repeated in the athletic world, but in reality pain is not good. It is a sign that you are either doing something wrong or taking things to far, too quickly. Stop when you feel discomfort, so you avoid serious injury. A foot or ankle overuse injury would seriously hinder any efforts to get back in shape.
Whether you are a seasoned athlete or new to exercise, please contact Dr. Mark Gasparini, DPM if you have any foot pain or concerns about your foot health. Call our office in Massapequa, NY at (516) 804-9038 to make an appointment today.