17 April 2014

Odds and Ends

No, no, don't rub your eyes, you have read the title correctly. It's "Odds and Ends".
Pray why, you may well ask? Any relevance in this theme?

Yes. Yes.

I have decided to use this post to include some important aspects about exercise that I have not included in the other 2014 AtoZ Blog post. These are important things that we may ignore or forget.

Apps and Gadgets: Some years ago we measured exercise intensity by the "Talk Test" or counting heart beats at the pulse. Things are much better now with fancy gadgets and smartphones and Apps that can monitor the heart rate, BP, distance covered/speed when cycling/walking/jogging and so on. They are quite useful so do use them where possible within limits ofcourse!

Attire: Its important to dress correctly when exercising. By correctly, I mean, dress according to the place you plan to exercise e.g. wear something warm if you go for a jog outdoors. Clothes made from the so-called 'Performance' fabrics may hurt your budget but they are quite effective- to 'wick' sweat away from the body, to support etc. Your clothes must suit your activity e.g. Baggy trousers can actually hinder cycling as the folds tend to get caught up in the chain. Whatever clothes you choose should be comfortable.

Footwear: Technological developments have helped experts create footwear specific to different activities. So you have footwear for different type of sports, for jogging, trekking and so on. Of course they come at a cost so try to find a pair that will serve you in your workout regimen.


Gym hygiene, fitness
Do not ignore hygiene aspects in your Health Club
 Stretches: Actually I should have devoted a post to this topic but have something else in mind for 'S'. Its absolutely vital to end any kind of exercise program with stretches especially for the muscle groups that have been worked out. Stretches help improve flexibility, posture and prevent injuries. It also helps increase blood supply to the muscles which can wash away accumulated metabolic wastes. Important things to be remembered are the stretching movement must be slow and gradual (no bouncing) and hold the stretched position for a few seconds. Stretching can be static or dynamic (done as part of rapid movements).

Cheers!

Disclaimer: All suggestions are general in nature. Readers are advised to exercise caution before implementing them and seek expert advise about what is suitable for their specific needs. 

The above image is part of a my Health Column and was first published in Windows & Aisles, the inflight magazine of Paramount Airways.

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