Is your New Year’s exercise program an injury
just waiting to happen?

Starting an exercise regimen is one of the most popular New Year’s resolutions. And for most of us, it’s a good idea. Staying fit is good for both our mental and physical health. The bad news is that many of us won’t stick to our well-intentioned plan. Worse still, many others will injure themselves because they haven’t carefully planned a workout routine that matches their needs and capabilities.

Here are a few tips that will help you get in shape without getting in over your head.

With exercise, go slow
One of the leading causes of exercise-related injuries is trying to do too much, too soon. If you haven’t exercised for a while, start your routine with something simple, like walking or riding a stationary bike. Even if you are fairly fit, the odds are that you may have slacked off a little bit over the holidays and may have put on a few extra pounds. Start slowly, and gradually increase your workload over a series of sessions.

Get an expert opinion
Most of us think we’re a lot more fit than we are. Before beginning a fitness regimen, it’s a good idea to get a checkup from your primary care physician. Your physician can make recommendations for an exercise program based on your age, goals and overall physical condition. You may also want to consult a trainer at a local gym. An appropriate workout regimen is not only healthier and safer, you’re more likely to stick with it because it’s more enjoyable and less tiring than overtraining.

Know your strengths – and your weaknesses
Even if you’re in pretty good shape, modifying your workout routine can be a significant challenge. For example, you might be a strong runner, but if you decide to add a weight-lifting regimen to your workout and you’ve never lifted before, realize that you’re going to have to start at the bottom in your new discipline and work your way up.

You are your only real competition
Running or working out with friends can be beneficial as it gives you a support group to help you achieve your goals. But don’t let it become a competition. Everybody is different, and you may need more time to build up to running a specific distance, lifting a certain amount, losing a set amount of weight, or whatever other goals you may set.

Accidents will happen
Even with the best planned, most careful exercise regimen, accidents can happen. Legacy ER and Urgent Care is ready to help. Our x-ray capabilities can assess broken bones and sprains, we have a CT scanner to check head injuries and concussions, EKG machines if you experience chest pains and we can treat cuts, muscle injuries and other bumps and bruises quickly and efficiently. Just drop in or check in online so you can get back to getting in shape as soon as possible.

“Legacy ER has the equipment and expertise to treat almost any sports injury, from a simple sprain to a fracture, concussion or even chest pain,” commented Dr. Steven E. Martz, M.D., FACEP.

VIP Perks members who want to know more about exercise options for a healthier New Year can post questions on Ask the ER.