Many people are hesitant to start new exercises because they are afraid of muscle strain, joint pain or unexpected injuries. Many people even choose to limit exercise to maintain bone and joint health.
However, experts confirm that this is a misconception. New reasonable exercise is key to maintaining flexibility, keeping muscles and joints functioning properly and reducing the risk of chronic pain as you age.
Dr. David Abbasi, Orthopedic surgeon, sports medicine expert at PRIME Orthopedics & Regenerative Center (Florida, USA) shares 4 important principles for long-term injury prevention.
You dont protect your body by getting less exercise, but by getting better prepared, Dr. David Abbasi emphasizes. Choices from your 20s and 30s will determine how you move at 40, 50 or 60.
1. Strength training helps protect joints
According to Dr. Abbasi, building muscle is the foundation for maintaining stable joints and reducing chronic injuries. When muscles are weak, joints become more vulnerable.
Weight training, resistance training or strength sports all help improve muscle and bone endurance.
2. Maintain exercise to avoid stiffness causing pain
Regular exercise helps the hips, shoulders, and spine function properly, thereby limiting stiffness, which is a factor that initiates injury due to wear and tear. Stretching, yoga, mobility or simply walking exercises also help maintain flexibility.
3. Building good habits every day
Not only exercises, daily activities such as sitting posture, standing position, carrying position, and even sleep quality greatly affect joint health.
Daystime habits are more important than the hours you spend at the gym, Dr. Abbasi emphasized.
4. Consistency is more important than intensity
Many people only exercise heavily for a few sessions and then miss out, making the body easily exhausted and increasing the risk of injury.
Experts recommend that regular, purposeful exercise will bring outstanding benefits compared to overtraining sessions.
(The article is for reference only, not a replacement for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor if you have health questions).
