Spring Fever Brings Sore Muscles
The weather has been unseasonably warm this winter but the few cold days keep me holed up inside as I really have an intolerance for cold (born and raised right here in NC, I realize I’d never survive a northern winter). I have managed to drag myself out to run two to three times a week but I’m certainly less active during the winter months. With more and more warm days I’ve decided it’s finally time to get back to some strength training to help get ready for tank tops, the dreaded bathing suit and my favorite summer activities.
I love to go out on the water on a kayak or SUP (Stand Up Paddle) board. My family will head to Jordan Lake, pack lunch and spend the afternoon touring around the banks looking for birds and other wildlife. It’s one of my favorite things to do so I want to be ready to hit the lake as soon as the water temperature is tolerable! Our arms can get tired pretty quickly and I don’t want to be the one slowing everyone down so it’s back to the weights I go.
Any time you change your exercise routine or start a new workout you’re bound to experience some aches and pains. Stretching, heat therapy, foam rollers and topical analgesics (like Biofreeze) are all great ways to relieve muscle soreness. Also, according to a study in the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine, taking Omega -3 fatty acid supplements reduces soreness caused by strenuous strength exercise. You can pick up both Biofreeze and Omega -3 at Brookview…AND Dr. Brooke is offering a special on Biofreeze for the month of March ($10 instead of $12/bottle).
What are you waiting for?! Get out there and enjoy this weather before it snows!
*The information in this article is not meant to treat, diagnose or serve as a replacement for medical advice. Please schedule an appointment with Dr Brooke or your physician before changing your exercise or diet, including adding supplements. If you experience any pain or discomfort during or after exercise that you think may be more serious, stop and call Dr. Brooke or your medical practitioner immediately.