Get Ready, Get Set, Go 5K Prep

Looking for a new way to get in shape?  Striving for a new goal is always an excellent way to put a little extra excitement into your workout!  While small, consistent goals like keeping your heart rate up for 30 minutes per day at least 3 days per week are wonderful ways to stay healthy, getting in shape for an event is even better because it gives you a goal that you are fully accountable for.  Sign up for a local event, and go ahead and pay the entry fee so that you will stay committed.  You could even include your friends and family so that everyone is involved!  Competitive? Make it a competition so you can see who can get the best time! 

We will be hosting a 5K run/fun walk on September 8, 2012 in Bessemer, Alabama and would like to challenge you to get into shape for it.  By starting to prepare now, you can ensure yourself to finish the 3.1-mile race in a healthy way, with a time that may surprise you!  Here are a few tips & tricks that will help you stay healthy and not overdo it at first:

§         First, get a physical from your chiropractor or family physician to make sure that you are healthy enough to begin working out, and talk to them about problems you may encounter.

§         Next, talk to your doctor about how you should get started in striving for your goals.  Remember, everyone may start at a different level, and it’s important to push yourself, but be sure to know your limits.

§          Go get some properly fitting running shoes.  If you have had problems with your feet in the past, I would suggest you go to a running store and talk to them about the support that you will need.

§         The next step is to break those shoes in!  Set up a work out plan that you can stick to!  Don’t plan on working out for 2 hours per day 7 days a week because you will become discouraged.  Start small: 3 days per week for 30-40 minutes would be great.

§         Be sure to begin and end each workout by walking 5-10 minutes and doing some light stretching.  This warm up and cool down will help to prevent injury and decrease soreness.

§         Stay hydrated!!! Dr. Harper recommends that you drink 8 ounces of water every 20 minutes.  For longer workout sessions (90 minutes or more), a sports drink such as Gatorade or Powerade would be good to replace the sodium & minerals lost while sweating during your workout.  Always drink plenty of water after your workout, despite the time spent working out or the intensity.

Stay motivated!  You CAN accomplish your goals!  You WILL succeed!

We have some exciting news: Town & Country Spinal Pain Center will be hosting our first annual Fans For Fitness, 5K Run/Fun Walk on September 8th, 2012!  We would love to have you be a part of this wonderful event.  Additional news will be coming your way as we progress!