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How Much is Too Much?
How much is too much, exercise that is?
Maybe we should get more activity in, and maybe not! Ever hear the term "Weekend Warrior"? This syndrome may apply whether we are exercising over a weekend, long weekend or even during our normal routines. Because even a good thing can be overdone! What can happen if we overdo? Here are a few examples of what " too much" can lead to that I've observed over time: a) extreme soreness b) minor injury c) chronic type injury d) dropout
What is "Too Much"?
Sport Activity: Never seem to get in enough tennis, golf, cycling or other such activity until a long weekend? Playing 1- 1/2 hours of tennis every day when we usually play once per week can lead to strains, sprains and chronic injuries such as tendonitis. Increasing our amount of exercise within a short period of time before our body can adapt can have negative consequences.
Surface Change: Usually run on a treadmill, but plan on running outdoors this weekend? Changing surface without adding extra mileage even in one session can set us up for tendonitis, very, very sore muscles or worse. I once twisted my angle primarily due to muscle fatique because I jogged on a different surface! Of course, we can always hobble around the rest of the weekend. Please note that surface changes apply to tennis courts etc., and terrain changes such as changing from flat terrain to hills.
New Activity: Haven't participated in any regular activity recently? Let's proceed with a little caution when trying something new. This can apply to even Yoga! Keeping up with the class by pushing into those advanced poses can lead to our straining a muscle. Let's each go at our own pace!
Change in Gear: Subtle differences in shoes, and equipment such as a new racquet will cause subtle differences in the way our muscles work, which if we overdo can lead to injury . Many of us women can relate to this when we dance for hours in a new pair of high heeled shoes!
Okay, I think we get the idea that our body needs time to adapt to new movements, new activities, new environments and even new gear such as shoes. So, while we are all being advised to increase our exercise and activity levels, sometimes too much of even a good thing, might not be a great idea.
June www.junefit.com
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