Orthopedic Health for the Older Athlete
Each of us, as we age, begin to notice certain changes in our abilities to compete in athletic activities, or the rate at which our bodies recover from demanding physical activity. The body naturally becomes weaker as we age; reaction time slows down and bone and muscle mass begin to decline. It is important to be active at all stages of life, but doing so may require adaptations to prevent tissue damage and pain. Adjusting your training to prevent orthopedic injuries includes: Stay hydrated while exercising. Reduce the intensity, but not the intention, of your workout. Set a specific goal for yourself each week and work at a pace that is comfortable for YOU to achieve it. If you feel pain developing, listen to your body. Maintain your bone and muscle mass by including some form of weight training in your routine. This can include lifting weights or even swimming or walking. Invest in a quality pair of shoes appropriate for the specific activity. This is especially important for...