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Archive: January 2007

Can you avoid boomeritis?

As we age, keeping a body healthy doesn’t always mean pushing it to it’s limits

By Sarah Murgittroyd

Whether it’s to have more energy, be healthier or lose weight, many Baby Boomers have placed exercising regularly at the top of their list of resolutions for 2007. What you may want to add to your list is avoiding injuries as you jump-start your healthier lifestyle.

Many people beginning a new exercise regimen, or returning to exercise after an extended period of time, may be at risk for overuse injuries such as muscle strains, tendonitis, bursitis and stress fractures. There are steps, however, that you can take to reduce your likelihood of incurring these injuries on your way to a healthier you.

Get a Checkup

If you suspect you may have an old injury from your high school or college days, have it checked by your physician. He or she may recommend that you follow up with an orthopedic doctor, begin with physical therapy or may suggest some helpful exercises to get you started.

Go Gradually

Remember that your body has adapted to a life without regular exercise and it will need time to adapt to your new lifestyle. Avoid jumping right into an old workout routine without allowing your body to become accustomed to exercise again.

Limber Up

Do a 5-10 minute warm-up of brisk walking or light jogging and stretch all your major muscle groups for 20-30 seconds before beginning your routine. Remember to take time at the end of your workout for more thorough stretching. Flexibility is lost as we age, as our muscles become less pliable and joints lose some of their lubrication.

Get Help

Invest in a few sessions with a certified personal trainer who can orient you on your facility’s equipment, instruct you in proper technique, and help you set up a regular program that will meet your needs and help you attain your goals.

Listen To Your Body

If you experience slight muscle soreness the day after a workout, it’s probably normal. Just give your body a day of rest and gentle stretching before continuing. As your body adapts to your new healthy habit, you’ll notice less and less soreness. However, if you have nagging pain that doesn’t improve with a few days’ rest, you should consult your doctor to rule out any serious injury. There are many obstacles that we face when beginning a new habit. Don’t let an overuse injury slow you down on your way to your new healthy lifestyle!

Sarah Murgittroy is an outreach certified athletic trainer to St. Johns High School and co-Team Leader at Ingham SportsMed and Physical Therapy. She is also a Michigan State University alumna.