For most of us, summer ’21 is shaping up to be more active and action packed than last summer. Amusement parks, zoos, museums and activity centers are fully reopening, and many people are traveling again. If last year was less physical than usual, it’s important to be mindful of the strain our activities can have on our bodies that can easily lead to injuries.
You may have seen my post earlier this year on CopperJoint Compression. They make compression gear infused with copper. Copper is known to promote the development of blood vessels and rejuvenate skin through the synthesis of collagen and elastin, enhance oxygen delivery and augment airflow. It also is anti-bacterial, so the garments don’t get smelly! They sent me some tips on protecting yourself from injury and staying healthy this summer.
Tips to Help Prevent your Summer Plans from Going from “Wow to Ouch”.
- Stretch it out. Whether you are going for a five-mile hike, taking a walking tour or going to an amusement park or zoo, make sure to warm up your joints and muscles. There are tons of basic stretches that target the areas that you will be using the most during your activities. Need some suggestions, check out these YouTube videos.
- Stay hydrated. Proper hydration helps to prevent heat stroke and other common heat illnesses. It can also help protect your joints and muscles by keeping the cartilage soft and pliable. Dehydration is known to pull fluids out of tissues, which leads to overall body aches and pains.
- Start slow and finish strong*. Getting back to travel and activities is so exciting. It’s easy to over do it! If you haven’t been as active, set a less ambitious plan for your vacation or city excursions. Instead of seeing everything in one day, do two half days and enjoy some down time. If you’re starting back to a fitness program or running, start with the basics and modify your classes or workouts to suit where you’re at now.
- Gear up. Compression gear is known to help alleviate muscle and joint stiffness, swelling, soreness and pain. Compression sleeves and socks provide support to ailing areas and help stimulate oxygen delivery to muscles to assist with performance and coordination. Long compression socks are great for air travel to keep the blood flowing. Look for compression gear made with copper ions in the fabric, like CopperJoint products for anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral protection. All of those elements are key during sweat-inducing activities and warm weather. Also if you’re walking a lot, or running, pay attention to your shoes and socks to avoid blisters. Your clothes matter, too! Wear outfits that you know won’t chafe or rub.
- Take a break. There’s nothing wrong with having to call time out on your activities to rest or take another stretching break. It’s important to listen to your body, especially after not being able to participate in many activities for over a year. Pushing yourself and overdoing it can lead to major aches and pains later.
What tips do you have for staying healthy and injury free this summer?
Thanks to CopperJoint for these awesome tips! You can find them online and on Amazon.
I’m linking up with Darlene, Michelle, Renee, Jenn and Zenaida, for Fit Five Friday. Join us!
Have a great weekend!
PS. Please don’t forget my great giveaways.
*I added this one!