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In Their Own Words
Everyone can be fit, hear in their own words how others approach fitness and the tips they have to offer you.
Ripped Abs Not Included
By Justine A.
Everyone can be fit. Being fit doesn’t have to mean having the perfect ripped abs. Take me for example. I am far from being on the cover of a fitness magazine, I definitely do not have a six pack or a slimmed, toned body, plus I have Cerebral Palsy.
Just because I may not live up to the standards of the stereotypical “fit” person or that I have a physical disability doesn’t mean I can’t get fit. That goes for every single person, so stop making excuses of why you can’t do it and remember everyone can be fit. Now before you get too excited and run to the treadmill or weight machines, here are a few things to know to make your workout the best it can be.
First, gently stretch as part of your general warm-up before your workout. You don’t have to go all out and create a yoga routine or anything, just a little stretch for your arms and legs will loosen you up. Stretching pre-workout may help decrease the chance of injuring yourself. Who wants to get hurt at the gym?
Second, ALWAYS take a full water bottle, your constant gym companion. When you work out you sweat. That’s just the way it is. When you sweat your body loses water which causes you to become dehydrated. That is not good. Dehydration can cause headaches and sickness. To avoid all that, like you should, just remember two words, take water.
Third, exercising should NEVER be painful. If exercising at any point becomes painful, stop immediately! To help prevent injury at the gym, stick to a machine or perform an exercise that works for you. For example, if your knee joints are already giving you problems don’t run on the highest speed while on the treadmill. Don’t try to lift 500 pounds if you’re only capable of 50. You’re not at the gym to impress anyone. Honestly people don’t care. Remember you’re working out for you not for anyone else. Plus the beauty of starting out slow is that you can work up.
So now go ahead run to the treadmill (or walk slowly) or the nearest weight machine. WAIT! On second thought just walk briskly.
Editorial note:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely that of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or advise of Sports Driven or its parent company.
Filed Under: Injury Prevention
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