We are at that time again when we are becoming active after the winter season and have resolved to get fit and lose those extra kilos we have all put on. This quite often results in an influx of overuse injuries and a trip to your local physiotherapist in pain, as people take to the roads, treadmills and gyms with increased motivation.

As physiotherapists we encourage people to stay fit and healthy, however, to do this in a controlled and rational manner. Safe exercise is required to reduce injuries in the population of people who have stopped exercising over winter and are ‘full steam ahead' to get fit for summer.

We all need to work within our limits and fitness level and should not be pushed beyond this limit. During fatigue we are at the greatest risk to sustain an injury. It is important to develop good aerobic fitness, muscle strength, control and balance and to maintain good muscle length. This should increase gradually over time.

Many people undertake exercise programs without adequate warm-up. Warm-up should build to the point where we develop a light sweat without any shortness of breath and should be specific to the particular activity being undertaken.

For any activity the appropriate equipment should be used. Especially for running activities, the appropriate footwear should be worn. The shoes should have good cushioning yet provide adequate stability to reduce the likelihood of stress fractures, planter fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis and knee problems to name a few. Shoes should be changed every 1,000 km – for runners every 6 – 9 months, while walkers should change every 12 months. For more information, call 5527 7092

Mention This Month On Broadbeach Magazine for your *FREE Initial Treatment. *Based on Private Health Cover Rebate or $25 Fee with no cover. (In red)

by Melanie Roberts