When engaging in strenuous physical activities, it’s important to know your limits. Overextending yourself may result in strains, sprains, and injuries that cause pain and limit your range of motion. As you get ready for summer sports, here’s how chiropractors recommend learning and honoring your body’s physical limitations.

Your Guide to Physical Limits

What are they?

Physical limits pertain to how much you can lift, stretch, run, or otherwise maneuver your body before experiencing discomfort or hurting yourself. All bodies are different, which means everyone’s limits are different. While you may be aware of some, others may be new to you, especially when trying a new sport or activity. 

Why is knowing them important?

Challenging yourself is key to getting better at a sport and staying in shape. At the same time, overexerting yourself may result in potentially serious injuries, such as intercostal strains and stress fractures, which can worsen over time, requiring treatment from a chiropractor. 

How can I test them?

Moderation is crucial when it comes to testing your physical limits. Try an activity for a short period of time, gradually increasing your stamina. When you become fatigued, stop and rest. Warming up prior to a big game and stretching to cool down afterward, is an effective strategy for improving your limits. 

In addition to testing your limits, it’s important that you incorporate days of rest into your exercise regimen. For example, if you have a game or tournament on the weekend, rest, stay hydrated, and do light stretching the day before and after. 

If you experience an injury while playing sports or exercising, schedule an appointment with Midway Pointe Chiropractic. This chiropractor provides spinal adjustments, rehabilitation, and massage therapy to Elyria, OH clients. Call (440) 324-2040 to make a chiropractic care appointment. Visit their website to learn more about free back pain analysis, x-rays, and diagnoses.