Joint The Dots!

The Joints are probably the most ignored and underrated parts when it comes to exercise. We often believe that it’s an “old man’s” concern and not ours. However, it is very important to work on our joints as they are interconnected to other vital parts. Here are a few you should all know about the joint.

Keep your joints moving.

Many people with arthritis resist regular physical activity or exercise because they fear it will increase pain or further damage their joints. The body is supposed to move; our joints allow for movement. In fact, movement eases joint stiffness, reduces joint pain, strengthens the muscles which surround the joints, and helps us maintain a healthy weight. The benefits are real, so keep moving!

The practice of low-intensity exercise.

The desired benefits of regular physical activity and exercise can be achieved with low-impact exercise—a gentler type of exercise that minimizes the stress put on joints during high-intensity workouts.

Enhanced flexibility.

Arthritis is characteristically associated with a limited range of motion. To preserve your current range of motion or improve it, you should routinely put each joint through its full range of motion. Extend, bend, or rotate each of your joints. Range-of-motion exercise improves flexibility, relieves stiffness and pain, and helps us to keep our joints functional.

Perfect Your Posture.

Slouching is not good for your joints. Standing and sitting up straight protect your joints from your neck to your knees. Good posture also helps guard your hip joints and back muscles. Posture is also important when lifting and carrying. For example, if you use a backpack, be sure to put it over both shoulders instead of slinging it over one. Being lopsided puts more stress on your joints. When lifting, use the biggest muscles in your body by bending at your knees instead of bending your back.