Health Affixed

Health Is Limitless

Create a fun workout space.

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Exercising is only as fun as you make it. Sure, it’s satisfying afterwards, but dreading the workout session may mean that you never experience that satisfaction. When creating your workout space, opt for small and large equipment as well as easy workout options.

On your light days, you may want to walk on the treadmill, do a flat ride on the spin bike, or do a 20 minute DVD. If you are not fond of strength training, then opt for kettle bells, bands, and sliders in addition to barbells. A variety of options will allow you to combine your options to increase intensity or switch up your routine. If you feel full of energy, you can do the bike, treadmill, DVD, bands, sliders, kettle bells, and the barbells.

The goal is to create a workout space that is fun and full of options so that you never dread a workout session. Remember that getting dressed to workout is 75% of the battle.

Running Pain: Check Your Sneakers

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You saw a great deal and you bought it. The deal was great, but the sneakers may not be great for you. There are several factors that go into finding the perfect running shoes.

First – what is your arch type: low arch/flat feet, average arch, or high arch? You can outline your feet on a sheet of paper to find your arch type and compare it to a diagram online.

Second – what type of support does the shoe provide: neutral, stability, or motion control? Your arch type will determine the type of support you need. If the shoe does not provide the support you need, then you will likely experience pain or discomfort in the short or long term.

Third – how much weight can the shoe manage? Extra cushioning or support may be necessary depending on your weight.

Fourth – how many miles do you intend to average per day or week? If you plan to do some serious running, then you need to consider the quality of the sneaker not just the price.

Advice – do not play tennis or do aerobic exercises in running shoes. They were designed to support your feet while running which is a forward motion. Tennis and aerobic activity generally contain abrupt twists and turns that tennis, cross fit, and gym shoes were designed to handle.

Recovery Basics: Cool Down and Replenish

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Cool Down: The debate is over. Cooling down after a sweat session is mandatory. Stopping abruptly after vigorous activity can cause dizziness and fainting. In addition, your body needs time to adjust the hormone and acid levels that were built up during your vigorous activity. Cooling down allows the body to gradually return to a balanced state. Reduce the intensity of your exercise and continue at the level that will allow your heart rate to return to its pre-activity state. Once your heart rate is at a comfortable level, then complete your stretch routine. When in doubt, walk it out.

Replenish: Because we sweat it out, it is important that we replenish it. What is it? Electrolytes: Sodium, Chloride, Potassium, Magnesium, and Calcium. An electrolyte imbalance can lead to health issues. If you exercise for 1.5 hours or more during a single session, then be sure to replenish your electrolytes. An easy way to replenish them is to drink a sports drink because sports drinks often contain electrolytes and minerals. Another option is to make your own drink using one of the many recipes online.