Tips From Your Fort Lauderdale Chiropractor to Prevent Summer Sports Injuries

Summer means longer daylight hours, which lead to more time spent in the great outdoors. It gives us all a chance to be more active than we might be during the colder months of the year. Popular summer sports such as baseball, volleyball, running and biking are great ways to stay in shape and keep our bodies healthy. However, the extra exertion of energy may lead to injuries if we are not careful. We are offering three prevention tips to avoid a summer sports injury.

3 Ways to Stay Safe While Playing Summer Sports

1.  Be cautious of overheating. Most of us know to properly hydrate after a workout, but what many forget is the importance of drinking water during a workout as well. Especially when exercising outside, it can become all too easy to become dehydrated and overheat. Take water with you wherever you are working out and choose mornings or evenings to avoid the sun when it is at its most powerful.

2. Stretch. Stretching should not be considered a luxury, but rather a necessity to any workout. Make sure your muscles are loose before diving into any exercise. A warm up walk or jog before a long run is helpful. Stretches and jumping jacks are a good idea before a full-blown cardio workout. Allow time before and after your workout to stretch the muscles to avoid strains, stress fractures and cramps.

3. Be properly equipped. Do you have what you need for your outdoor activity? If you are hiking a steep trail, you need shoes that have a good grip and provide adequate arch support. If you are cycling, a properly-fit helmet is key. Also, do not neglect applying sunscreen when you are being active outdoors.

Nothing puts a damper on an exercise regimen faster than an unexpected setback. Consider seeing a chiropractor if you are experiencing any pain from a recent sports injury. Regular checkups can help prevent injury and keep your body at an optimal level of health. What is your favorite summer sport?