Sports & Exercise In The Winter – How To Avoid Injury

For some people, the winter weather means cosying up indoors and waiting for spring to arrive. For others, it’s the best time of the year to enjoy the great outdoors. It’s vital to stay active throughout the year, but as with any kind of physical activity, it can come with its share of risks.

Performing any type of exercise in cold weather puts more strain on the body. The majority of injuries can easily be prevented if you prepare for your activity by keeping in good physical condition, staying alert and stopping when you are tired or in pain. To decrease your risk of injury, make sure you take note of the following…

1. Not wearing the right clothing

The best way to stay warm and dry during cold weather exercise is to learn how to properly layer your clothing. By wearing clothing in a specific combination of layers, you will more easily regulate your body temperature, keep moisture away from your skin, and stay warm and dry even as you are working up a sweat.

Proper layering will not only make you more comfortable during winter activity, but it also keeps you safe.

2. Not warming up

Warming up increases blood flow to the area, allowing important nutrients and oxygen to the muscles, giving the muscle the ability to adequately contract its muscle fibres, ultimately preparing the muscles for an increase in motion, and decreasing your chance of injury to the muscle.

3. Not knowing your body

Another factor to keep in mind is that your body needs time to adjust to any sport. It’s critical to listen to your body, so don’t override that little cautioning voice or push yourself too hard. Water consumption is also vital for all sports, but can be forgotten during the colder winter months so remember to stay hydrated!

Dreary days and cold weather may make you want to just sit at home and just watch TV, but you must resist the urge. Even if outdoor activity isn’t an option, there are hundreds of indoor exercises you can attempt, including yoga, Pilates and heading to the gym. When it comes to exercise, something is always better than nothing. Winter is a great time to be active and keep in shape in time for summer.

Winter exercise may be cold, fun, and exhilarating, but before you race outdoors into frosty bliss, you should take the proper precautions to indulge in your sport, because no one wants to be stuck inside with an injury all season long.

Have fun being active! And don’t hesitate to contact us on 01722 512 043 should you have any concerns about injuries, niggles or discomfort – anything that might be inhibiting your exercise plans this winter!