Getting fit for summer

The good news is that summer is coming and you can shed all of those heavy clothes. The bad news is now you have to reveal what is underneath, especially with beachwear. It seems one of the rites of spring is to get in shape for summer. This is good incentive to start a fitness program. But there are certain cautions you should adhere to.

Take It Slow - If you have generally been inactive all winter don't over do it initially. And if you are not a spring chicken then you need to take particular care with the level of your activity. A common cause of injuries is excessive stress on underused muscles.

It is inevitable that you will experience some stiffness. That is to be expected when you have been inactive for a long period of time. You should be concerned about excessive stress leading to possible long-term injuries. An example would be running an unreasonable distance when you have not worked out your leg muscles in some time. Or over doing some strength training when you have not pumped iron for several months or more.

And this is not only true for exercising, but also for household projects, gardening, etc. Last weekend I ripped out the carpeting in one of the bedrooms and replaced it with hardwood flooring. Since I work out every day, I was surprised on just how stiff I was come Monday. This project required doing two days of non-stop squats, which stressed different muscles then are used from running. I could barely get out of bed after the weekend.

An injury caused by excessive stress can result in long-term problems. It could put you on the sidelines for most of the summer.

Stretching - To prevent potential injuries, all forms of exercise should be precluded with a variety of stretching. Loosen up those muscles before and after a workout. I cannot overemphasize how important this is in preventing injuries through stress.

Drink Those Fluids - If you are active outdoors during the summer you are going to sweat, and in the process you will drain body fluids. On particularly hot days this can have serious consequences. In general, we tend to inadequately replace body fluids. Who really drinks the amount water suggested by health experts? It is important that you drink fluids like water and sports drinks before and after your workout. If you are active for a length of time, then you should be consuming fluids on a regular basis. Beer does not count.

Keep It Going All Year Long - There is a natural tendency in the summer to be more active. The warm weather encourages activities like gardening, sports, walking and running. Why make your fitness a seasonal endeavor? Feel good all year long. Unless you live in SoCal you may be limited on your outdoor activities, but that does mean you can't still get out for a walk or a run. The cold can be invigorating. And of course you can join a club or purchase some home fitness equipment (standard shameless plug).

So get yourself in shape for summer, and not only will you look good, but you'll feel great.

Have a healthy and prosperous life.

Author Notes:

Fred Waters contributes and publishes news editorial to http://www.smoothfitness.com. Get yourself in shape for summer, and not only will you look good, but you'll feel great.