Chiropractor-Approved Activities for Summer | Tips to Take Care of Your Spine
Are you excited for summer? We are! After the long gray days of winter, it’s exciting to finally be able to get outside and enjoy the warmth and sunshine. To help you enjoy a summer that’s safe and healthy as well as fun, we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite chiropractor-approved activities for summer, complete with tips on how to take care of your spine while you soak up those rays.
Our Favorite Chiropractor-Approved Summer Activities
On the Trail:
Hiking – It’s a summer favorite for a reason. Hiking can add a sense of adventure to your exercise routine and is the perfect way to explore new areas. There are trails for every fitness level, so choose one suited to your current abilities and work up from there. Remember the water and sunscreen, and don’t forget to enjoy the scenery!
Walking or Running - Walking and running are ideal activities for year-round exercise, making this a great way to build your exercise habit. If you already enjoy a stroll or jog regularly, keep the habit up during these warmer months by finding some shady new trails or doing your daily constitutional in the morning or evening when the weather is cooler.
Biking – If walking or running isn’t your thing, you can get out and explore the neighborhood on your bike instead. Cycling is great for your heart and lungs while being easy on the knees. Just make sure that your bike is set up to fit you properly and always wear a helmet.
In the Water:
Swimming – Perhaps the ultimate low-impact exercise, swimming is a full-body workout that provides tons of benefits with very low risk of injury. It’s great for everyone but can be an especially good option if you have arthritis or other problems that make it hard to enjoy other forms of exercise and sports.
Kayaking – Kayaking is the perfect upper body workout for summer. And the Eugene/Springfield area boasts plenty of places to enjoy some aquatic scenery while you do it! If you’re new to kayaking, start with just short stretches on the water so you don’t put too much strain on your neck and shoulders.
Sports and Games
Tennis or Pickleball – If you like exercise with a little healthy competition, a game of tennis or pickleball is the perfect way to get your friends involved and have some fun together while taking care of your body. Just be sure to take plenty of breaks.
Frisbee – Fun and laidback, frisbee can be as high-energy or low-key as you want it to be. Plus, it’s a great way to get some movement in while you’re playing on the beach or waiting for those burgers to finish grilling.
More Options
Strength Training – If your focus is on strengthening your core or building muscle (or if you just don’t want to waste that gym membership!) strength training is a great form of exercise to work into your routine at any time of year. While weights and strength training are a useful part of a good exercise regime, a word of caution: It’s very important to make sure you are using proper form and only lifting the appropriate amount for your current fitness level to make sure that your exercise is helpful, not hurtful.
Yoga or Pilates – These gentle, low-impact activities are great for your body and have a host of mental health benefits too. Gently strengthening your body in a way that promotes mindfulness and relaxation may be just what you need to find calm in a busy summer.
Gardening – Yes, gardening absolutely counts as physical exercise, and it’s a great way to encourage yourself to eat healthy too! If you struggle with your knees or back, raised beds or container gardening can allow you to reap the benefits of fresh air, sunshine, and delicious produce without as much bending and reaching.
Tips to Protect Your Spine Over the Summer
Remember to keep yourself safe and protect your spine with these tips anytime you engage in exercise:
Warm Up and Cool Down – Before you start any of these fun, chiropractor-approved activities for summer, take 5 minutes to do some light stretches. This will help your body adjust and reduce the risk of injury. Do the same thing after any physical activity so you can safely bring your body back to a resting state.
Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise. Staying hydrated enhances muscle and joint function so that you can move more easily and comfortably. And of course, in the warm summer months it’s even more important to drink plenty of fluids to keep yourself cool and give you the energy you need. You can learn more about the importance of healthy hydration here.
Wear the Right Shoes – Shoes can make or break your exercise experience. Wear sturdy, supportive, and lightweight footwear when you exercise, and if you’re going to be on your feet a lot (for example, hiking, running, or walking) choose athletic footwear designed specifically for that activity. Even if you’re doing a low-impact exercise or just strolling along the beach, choosing shoes with your spine in mind will set you up for a happier summer.
Listen to Your Body – Summer is all about fun, so don’t push yourself too hard when you exercise. If you feel any pain or discomfort, stop and let your body rest. Even short breaks can make a big difference in helping to prevent injury and muscle fatigue. Listening to your body and giving it what it needs can allow you to party all summer long, instead of having to sit on the sidelines because of an injury.
Bonus Tip: See Your Chiropractor!
It’s important to be proactive about your health. One of the best ways to ensure that your body is functioning well is to get regular chiropractic treatment. Visiting your chiropractor on a regular basis can help you to avoid injury and get the most out of your summer activities.
At Tracy and Keim Chiropractic, we want to help you find wellness for all seasons of life. Contact us today at (541) 689-0935 to book your appointment and get started with a summer that’s pain-free and filled with all your favorite activities. We look forward to serving you and wish you a safe and healthy summer!
Sources:
- https://shorewoodelitechiro.com/10-activities-to-help-you-enjoy-summer-the-chiropractor-approved-way/
- https://painhero.ca/blog/10-chiropractor-approved-summer-activities-to-keep-your-body-healthy-and-pain-free/
Posted In:
Fun
Chiropractic
Exercise
General Health
