Spring is the season of renewal.  For many of us, spring is also time to get active.  It’s easy to fall into “hibernation” habits during the cold winter months.

But before you get started, talk to your chiropractor about what activities are best for you and your body.  You don’t want to aggravate an old injury or overwhelm yourself with too much strenuous activity too quickly.  Your chiropractor can help you gradually work up to a sustainable level of exercise.

If you are hoping to lose weight, training for a specific sport, or building your endurance level, your chiropractor can support you towards those specific goals.

A well balanced fitness program will include the following:

1. Cardio endurance:  How well your heart and lungs supply oxygen to your body.  15-20 minutes of running, walking, swimming, biking or dancing can help you build cardio endurance.
2. Muscular endurance:  How long you can repeat a movement or hold a position.  Weight training and other activities that work your muscles will increase muscular endurance.
3. Muscular strength:  How much weight you can lift safely and comfortably.  Weight training will increase your ability to lift.
4. Flexibility:  How limber your body is.  Stretches, yoga, and sports like gymnastics and dancing will help you to increase and maintain flexibility.

When you are using weights and performing movements, it is important to use the correct techniques to minimize the risk of injury.  Check with a trainer, health club staff, or trusted associate.  Make sure you understand the correct way to use the weights and equipment.

Before you start a new sport or exercise programme, see your chiropractor.  We can give you specialized recommendations.  For example, we can recommend stretches customized to the activity you hope to do.  We can also help improve your performance and flexibility.  Make an appointment with Sheppard Chiropractic Centre at (506) 635-8182 or (506) 847-7172.