Managing muscle aches and pains
Published:Monday | July 14, 2014 | 12:00 AM
Krysta Anderson, Lifestyle Writer
With the highly anticipated summer season already in full swing, many are still heating things up in the gym trying to either maintain their newly acquired 'summer body', or working even harder to hit their target before it is too late.
And since any form of physical activity, especially exercise, comes with more than its fair share of aches and pains, Flair decided to tackle this issue head on, addressing ways to cope with the side effects of fitness.
According to owner of Afya Yoga Pilates and Dance Studio, Sonita Morin Abraham, daily stretching, proper breathing technique, and regular rest are all important in dealing with aches and pains. "Yoga and pilates are wonderful for stretching," she declares.
INTEGRAL
The yoga and pilates instructor noted that stretching is very integral following each class, "I recommend yoga and pilates stretch to release sore muscles and pains. I also recommend joint stretch, too, because sometimes sitting down for long periods at work can create soreness in the muscles. Taking a rest from work and rotating ankles, wrists, fingers from typing and even toes, lubricates them, so to speak. For me, I do rotations each morning in the waist, hips and shoulders, and that helps as well."
Working out, she says, is not easy, so it is imperative that those engaging in physical activity are aware of their bodies. "I don't believe in the idea of no pain, no gain, because the more competitive you are, the more injuries you can incur. This is why it is important that you listen to your body and not push yourself beyond your limit."
She recommends, "Rest when you need to and breathe properly while exercising. Improper breathing prevents the body from taking in the vital fluids, so breathe deeply to avoid unnecessary aches and pain."
Fitness is an important facet of life, so to relieve aches and pains, exercise and stretch responsibly. Have a happy summer!