The reopening of gyms due to happen this spring has been welcomed by so many fitness lovers who have missed their gym routines, equipment and classes.
Although many people will have adopted some sort of at-home workout during the last 12 months, there is a level of safety and security that comes from working out at a gym. For one, you will no longer be working out in your recovery space. As science has proved, resting your body and staying in active recovery after a workout is beneficial for your body, particularly for breaking down fat and building strong muscles.
What are some common home-workout injuries?
National accident helpline studied the most common workout accidents to support their clients, as well as offering no-win-no-fee claims for injuries. Most commonly, back, neck and ankle injuries occur when people do not work out efficiently at home, this includes whilst running and cycling. The study found that 36% of us sustained pulled muscles during the lockdown period, which could have been avoided with a thorough warm-up and cool-down. The Rolled Ankle Recovery Time (also called an ankle sprain) depends on the severity of the injury.
If you are injured at home while working out, it is advisable to seek the medical attention you need and stop working out immediately.
Why is post-workout recovery so important?
Post-workout recovery time is important because it helps to avoid strains on joints and muscles and improves circulation. Stretching is one of the best post-workout activities you can do and helps to guide your body into a recovery state.
Rest days between workouts are also important to let your body repair. This is especially important for building muscles, as tears in muscles need time to recover and in order to build back strong.
What are the best ways to recover post workout?
The best things to do for your body after a workout are yoga, ice and heat compresses, and rest. It is also really essential that you eat nutritious, high-density food to help your body to repair and recover.
Hydration is also key, and you might even find it beneficial to drink more water than usual to help recover. Try to avoid coffee and alcohol as they can inhibit your body’s natural ability to heal after a rigorous workout routine.
How can I ensure I am working out safely at home?
When you are in the confines of a gym, you are generally under the watchful eye of personal trainers and managers who will ensure you are working out safely.
However, when you are working out at home it is easy to make errors, especially when it comes to posture and your workout equipment. Make sure you are taking every precaution you can to stay safe.
If you are doing an online workout, such as following a class on zoom, try and choose one in which the instructor is guiding you on safety as well as the workout. A simple reminder to carry out post-workouts with guidance on recovery techniques will help to avoid a long-term injury.
