After a bitter winter, the warmer months provide us with the motivation to get back into some form of structured exercise, such as walking, running, cycling and swimming. However, such keenness can also carry injury risks if not managed properly.

Training loads need to be built up gradually to allow the body to adapt to the stresses being placed on it. Thus, a sudden increase in training load, such as the scenario above, can lead to injuries such as muscle strains and tendinopathies.

The following tips will help to ensure that you enter into a training plan with the least risk and highest chance of success and enjoyment:

Get on top of any aches or pains – try not to ignore any niggles that may be present, as increasing the workload your body needs to deal with can further aggravate these and may lead to bigger problems. A simple visit to a physiotherapist will assist with getting on top of anything that may have the potential to cause further grief down the track

Plan your training carefully – as mentioned, it’s important that a training plan is structured in a way that allows the body to adapt and respond to the stimulus being placed on it (i.e. training load). Exercise physiologists are experts in providing exercise advice to all types of people and can help structure your program so that you are getting the balance just right.

The Sports Injury Clinic offers both 1:1 and group exercise physiology classes. Not sure if group training is for you? TSIC is currently offering 2 x 45-minute free 1:1 goal-setting sessions as well as a week of unlimited group classes. This exclusive offer is worth $189.

Visit tsic.com.au/services/tsic-training-services/group-training-special-offers to claim this offer.

THE SPORTS INJURY CLINIC

A: 365-367 Nepean Highway, Frankston

T: 9783 9990

W: tsic.com.au