“Watch out for sports!”: what happens if you abuse popular workouts?

Today, for many people, sport is an integral part of life. To keep fit, we are ready to spend hours in the gym, buy various guides and strictly follow the precepts of proper nutrition. But everything needs a measure.

Injuries, burnout, joint problems, increased risk of stroke – all these are possible consequences of excessive training. About how sports can harm, writes neurosurgeon Stephen Barrer in the book “Beware of Sports! About the harms of running, fitness and other physical activity”. We tell about the main recommendations of the doctor.

Pain in training

Many fitness trainers are of the opinion that without pain there is no result. Allegedly unpleasant sensations are a signal of the body about the work of muscles. Stephen Barrer argues that discomfort should be perceived as a red flag: this is how the body warns that something has gone wrong.

If you feel pain during exercise, it means that this type of exercise is not suitable for you. Muscles should not “burn”, they should work. If there is discomfort, it is worth taking a break to rest and recover.

When muscles get too much load, they start anaerobic glycolysis. This is a process in which glucose is broken down without oxygen. As a result, lactic acid is formed, which causes soreness, heaviness and cramping.

Yoga

Now this type of exercise is becoming increasingly popular. Yoga helps to strengthen the body and spirit. However, few people think about the possible negative consequences.

If you are trying to master difficult poses, you should seek help from a qualified instructor. Injuries that can be sustained when performing asanas incorrectly or sloppily, can disrupt the blood supply to the brain and even provoke a stroke. In addition, the instructor will tell you which exercises you should avoid, taking into account your state of health.

Crossfit

Such training has also gained wide popularity in recent times. Crossfit does not require special exercise equipment, it includes complex cardio exercises that need to be performed as quickly and as much as possible.

Training is not suitable for beginners and people with poor physical fitness. Most of the elements are quite complex and give a great load on the shoulder joint. If you do not follow the technique, you can get serious injuries.

Running

It would seem that what can be easier and safer than jogging? However, even here, Stephen Barrer cautions fitness enthusiasts. Runners often injure their knees, despite the fact that the foot and ankle joints bear the brunt of the load. Think about the amount of force bearing down on your foot while running – in fact, all of your weight.

For safe running activities, sneakers that your foot feels comfortable in are important. You should also favor routes with softer pavement.

Of course, the doctor does not call to completely abandon sports, but only reminds that everything needs a measure. Do not load the muscles to the last, exhausting yourself with hours of daily training, or endure pain. Listen to your body – it will tell you the right pace and intensity.