Being active and staying fit can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce blood pressure, build strong bones, relieve stress, and maintain flexibility and good posture. Recreational sport is a great way to enjoy the many benefits of physical activity whether you pick up a hockey stick, golf club, racquet, or paddle, get on a bike, or put on your running shoes! The important thing is to get moving.
Tip 1: Warm-Up
Before jumping in the pool, hitting the field or picking up a golf club, take a full 20 minutes – no less – to warm-up. Your warm-up should include deep breathing exercises, gentle stretching and range of movement exercises, as well as a brisk walk or easy jog to loosen and warm the muscles and joints.
Tip 2: Learn the Proper Technique
Learn the right technique for your sport from the beginning. Using the wrong sport-specific technique can create incorrect muscle memory and can make it difficult to break bad habits. Poor technique can also cause injury to your joints and muscles.
Tip 3: Use the Right Equipment
Make sure your equipment is the right fit, height and capacity for you to avoid a sport- related injury. Recreational athletes should have their equipment professionally fitted and checked before starting out.
Tip 4: Avoid Over-Training
Too much. Too fast. Too soon. Over-training is one of the most common causes of recreational athletic injuries. Take your time and work up to it slowly before pushing yourself too hard. Remember, rest is as important as training. Take a training break and give your body a chance to recover.
Tip 5: Treat Injuries Promptly
If you suffer an injury or experience pain that lasts longer than your usual post-workout soreness, ice the area to reduce swelling and inflammation, and consult a chiropractor. Keep in mind that Canada’s chiropractors work with our professional sports teams and Olympic athletes. A chiropractor can help maximize your muscle and joint function for years to come.
