CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) – New Year’s resolutions are in full swing and people across the country are starting new workout routines this month.
WBTV spoke to Dr. Payton Fennell, senior medical director for Novant Health Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, to learn more about exercise safety.
Fennell said it is important to avoid overexertion when exercising for the first time in a while.
“A lot of times when people will start working out, especially after a long period of time, they crank the intensity dial right up, and when that happens, that’s when they get hurt,” Fennell said. “That’s when you get the overuse injuries and then it actually becomes a negative impact for you, because you cease to work out because you’re hurt.”
The doctor said it’s important to be mindful of three things when working out: duration, frequency and intensity.
Fennell warned that taking extended time off and then trying to jump back into a strenuous workout can result in injury. He said he often treats patients who are dealing with strains and delayed onset muscle soreness.
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The American College of Sports Medicine recommends 150 minutes of moderate intensity workout a week, coupled with two strength training days in a week, according to Fennell.
He also noted that people who haven’t been regularly exercising should ease back into working out again. Fennell recommends that people practice dynamic stretching before beginning a workout.
“Dynamic stretching means that we are mimicking the motions that we’re gonna be doing while we’re actually working out,” Fennell said. “So, if I’m in the gym and I’m deciding to do a lower body activity, then I will mimic those activities with stretching.”
The doctor also explained that more walking can help with overall health and fitness, too.
“You work on the second floor, take the stairs up, don’t take the elevator. You have to go into the office, park in the back of the parking lot. Walk yourself in,” said Fennell.
Theresa Barnes, a local physician, also spoke to WBTV while taking a brief break from a morning bicycle ride with her three-year-old daughter, Camille.
“It’s great. It’s the best. She’s a joy to ride with. We’re having a really fun time,” said Barnes about riding with her daughter.
She explained that she is also thankful for the health benefits that come with cycling.
“It’s great for your heart. It’s great for your mind. It creates endorphin release to improve your mood – everything about it. It’s very important,” she said.
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