Down South, we don’t really have to worry about straining our backs while shoveling snow or enduring compression injuries while sledding. That’s simply because we very rarely get enough snow to shovel or sled down. However, warming up adequately before physical movement is still critical to avoiding injury during winter activities.
Why is warming up important?
Warming up before an outdoor workout or activity in the winter is essential. If your body is not properly adapted to the cold weather and you attempt to perform an activity or chore outside, then it can lead to muscle spasms, strains or sprains.
Avoiding injury during winter activities: here’s how.
First, make sure that you wear layers of warm clothing in order to prevent the aggravation of existing problems that could cause severe pain. Muscles and blood vessels contract to conserve the body’s heat, which reduces blood supply to the extremities. When this happens, muscle functionality decreases, especially for those who are out of shape.
The American Chiropractic Association suggests that you start with light aerobic activity such as jogging, biking or fast walking for about seven to 10 minutes before you begin an outdoor workout or activity.
Though we may not be dealing with snow first-hand here in Alabama, many of us travel to ski during the winter.
Before skiing, you can do 10 to 15 squats, standing with your legs shoulder-width apart and your knees aligned over your feet. Lower your buttocks as you bend your knees, and then stand up straight again.
If you are visiting an ice rink this season, it is suggested that you do lunges before you hit the ice in order to get warmed up adequately.
Don’t forget to cool down.
Despite that it’s cold outside, cool down stretches are also vital to your body’s performance during the winter months. Restore flexibility by repeating your warm-up stretches after your workout.
Avoiding injury during winter activities is a critical part of keeping pain out of your life. If you still experience pain despite these tips, you may need chiropractic treatment. At Advantage Chiropractic Clinic, we are here to help you feel better at any time of the year. Call us today at 334-821-2552!