Doctors even have a name for these sometime athletes: weekend warriors. According to a recent study by the Mayo Clinic , joint and back pain are listed in the top three reasons Americans visit their physician. The problem is that most adult athletes are interested in playing sports on the weekend, but they are habitually uninterested in the conditioning required for athletic readiness.
Taking up a sport at any age is great, but you still have to get in shape to prepare for the activity. Find one who experienced in all age groups and fitness levels. Sitting behind a desk all week isn't healthy for anyone.
Whether you have two minutes or two hours of weekday free time, utilize it to stretch or add in some cardio. Simple steps like parking far from the front door of your office and taking the stairs can help you to stay in fighting shape. Additionally, getting a stand-up desk or getting up from behind your desk at least every 20 minutes or as much as you are able can reduce your stiffness. Proper conditioning is enhanced by a healthful diet. A diet full of fruits, vegetables and lean meats can help your body be sport-ready come the weekend.
Hydration is important too. Drink at least 64 ounces of water per day, and on days you exercise be sure to replenish your electrolytes with healthy foods and extra H2O. When the weekend arrives, be sure to warm up before game time.
A trainer can help you to formulate stretches appropriate to your fitness level and sport, as well as a cool down routine-- vital to fight next-day stiffness and muscle strains. Treat injuries with rest, ice, compression and elevation to reduce pain and swelling and promote healing. If the injury causes continuous pain, swelling or numbness or you feel unstable when adding weight to it, it is time to visit a physician.
