Play Hard, Recover Better: Proactive Health Habits for Weekend Sports

Play Hard, Recover Better: Proactive Health Habits for Weekend Sports

“Play hard or go home.”

It’s funny how one of my go-to catch-phrases has taken on a new life since my becoming a chiropractor, especially after working with so many athletes. 

So. Many. Avoidable. Injuries. 

Now “play hard AND go home” seems more appropriate! 

Austin,Texas, it’s time we have a talk. 

Bottom Line:

Weekend sports are played by millions of individuals to stay active and interact with friends. 

And although the risk of getting hurt rises with age, you shouldn't let that stop you from participating in your favorite hobbies! 

As the top chiropractor in Austin, Texas for sports injury prevention, we want to share some proactive health routines for weekend sports that can keep you in the game.

Why it Matters:

Being proactive with your health is vital to preventing injuries, and your daily routine has a direct impact on how well you perform on the weekends. 

Stretching, strengthening, and daily mobility over your whole range of motion are important. 

Proactive Health Habits for Weekend Sports

1) Regular exercise during the week can help reduce the risk of injury on the weekends.

• According to Harvard Health Publishing, weekend warriors have a 40% lower risk of experiencing an adverse health event related to cardiovascular disease.
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• Engaging in at least 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week can help reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses.
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• Regular exercise can also help improve your overall fitness level, making it easier to participate in weekend sports activities without getting tired or winded.

2) Strength training is another crucial factor in injury prevention. 

• Building strength can help improve your body's support, stability, and balance.
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• Focus on different muscle groups, including your core, upper body, and lower body.
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• Resistance training exercises such as lunges, squats, push-ups, and planks can help improve your overall strength.

3) Regular movement is also essential for injury prevention. 

• Extended periods of sitting can cause stiffness and reduce your body's flexibility, leading to an increased risk of injury.
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• Therefore, move throughout the day, even if it's only for a few minutes.
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• Using a smartwatch or a health app to remind you to get up and move your body can be an effective way to maintain a balance of strength and flexibility.

Next Steps:

Keep in mind that being proactive is essential for avoiding injuries and continuing to play. 

Start practicing the few preventative health behaviors for weekend sports that we just mentioned. 

Stretching, strength training, and mobility can be included into your daily routine to lower the chance of injury and increase overall fitness. 

We're here to help you stay healthy and injury-free as Austin, Texas' premier sports injury prevention chiropractor. 

Don't wait to make an appointment with us if you're seeking for a chiropractor to help you continue to play hard and recover quickly for years to come.

Science Sources: 

The Underappreciated Health Benefits of Being a Weekend Warrior. Harvard Health Publishing. 2017.