Resolutions
Each year we come up with a set of New Year’s Resolutions. Usually getting in shape is on top of the list. But the task can be daunting and you could have an injury or a chronic condition that limits you from starting to exercise. Physiotherapy can offer you the help you need to exercise in a responsible way that will work around your injury and even significantly improve it.
For example, I often hear people have ‘Bad Knees’ and can’t run, therefore they think there is no option for exercise available to them. On the contrary, ‘Bad Knees’ is a Physiotherapist’s specialty and Therapeutic Exercises is the main treatment choice. A Physiotherapist will give you specific simple exercises that will strengthen your knee muscles without aggravating the joint and bones. They will also show you proper ways to stretch certain muscle group that could be causing an imbalance. They also have many other treatment options including massage, joint mobilization, taping and ultrasound to help with pain, tightness and swelling.
Many people start an exercise regimen too aggressively and become injured. It is better to start at your level and work your way up.
If you are hesitant to start an exercise program because you think you are limited by an injury or chronic pain, you should try a trial with a Physiotherapist. They will understand your limitations and needs and guide you on the path to getting in shape.
I came across a nice article summarising the components of exercise we should all strive for:
The Four Pillars of Exercise
1. Aerobic
2. Strengthening
3. Balance
4. Flexibility
Aerobic exercise is often called Cardio. It increases the heart rate and helps burn calories. The most common types are walking, running, biking, and swimming. Strengthening increases strength and muscle mass and has been shown to burn calories helping in weight loss too. Strength training also helps significantly with fighting weak bones as in osteoporosis and osteopenia. Types of strength training are lifting weights to body-weight exercises like planks and squats. Balance exercises increase your stability and become more important as you get older. Balance exercises include yoga, Pilates, and ball stability exercises. Flexibility is increased range of motion and helps prevent injury. Static stretching is commonly stretching the calves or hamstrings.
Most of us are not doing backbends on the beach, but we all dream of it. Take the first steps and see if a Physiotherapist can help you achieve your goals. Happy New Year!
Sarah
Advice & Treatment:
If you are experiencing any pain or symptoms then why not visit one of our highly experienced physiotherapists. Our clinics in West London can easily be reached from Kensington, South Kensington, Notting Hill, Hammersmith, Chelsea and Fulham areas.
Tel: 0207 603 0040