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Agility & Speed

Spine Specialist Team: Agility & speed are necessary for athletes and individuals who actively engage in physical activity and sports. These individuals often depend on these abilities to increase their overall performance. Quickly and gracefully, both mental and physical skills are often a key element towards overcoming challenges related to the individual’s specific sport. The key to improving agility is to minimize the loss of speed when redirecting the body’s center of gravity.

Rapid change drills that change direction forward, backward, vertically, and laterally will help improve individuals by training your body to make these changes more quickly. Dr. Alex Jimenez describes various stretches and exercises utilized to enhance agility and speed throughout his collection of articles, focusing largely on the benefits of fitness and occasional injuries or conditions resulting from overexertion.


How to Train for Long Distance Walking Safely

How to Train for Long Distance Walking Safely

For individuals training for long distance walking marathons and/or events, can focusing on building a walking foundation, then increasing mileage progressively help condition the body for overall readiness?

How to Train for Long Distance Walking Safely

Long Distance Walking Training

  • Training helps individuals be comfortable and safe for long-distance walking and events.
  • Training should focus on building a walking pace and increasing mileage gradually.
  • Individuals need endurance, not speed, and want to build mental stamina for walking for hours at a steady pace.
  • To reduce the risk of training injuries, increasing the total mileage per week/the distance of the longest walk per week to no more than 10% is recommended.
  • Individuals should also train to wear the gear worn during long-distance walks.
  • Training could last a few months.
  • Being methodical allows the body time to repair and build new muscle, blood supplies, and endurance.

Example Training Plans

Following a marathon training plan for mileage building and determining the proper hydration, nutrition, and gear for multi-day walks and treks is recommended. However, individuals must build back-to-back long days into their training sessions to assess any issues or problems resulting from walking long distances on back-to-back days.

Example Walking Training Plans

Multi-Day Walks/Treks Training Schedule

  • 13 miles per day/21 kilometers
  • Use this plan for marathons or other multi-day walks with hills and natural surfaces requiring a backpack.

Training to Walk a Marathon

  • 26.2 miles/42 kilometers
  • This will condition the body to go longer distances.
  • When training for distances of 31 to 100 miles/50 to 161 kilometers, the longest distance to train should not need to exceed 20 to 25 miles,
  • These should be performed at least twice two months before the marathon or event.
  • Taper down the month before the event to a 12.4-mile/20-kilometer distance.

Gear

All clothing, shoes, sunscreen, backpacks, etc., must be tested on the longer training days before the event.

  • Given the climate and terrain, plan for what will be needed and removed.
  • Try things out, as individuals don’t want to be surprised with something unfamiliar at the event. From head to toe, test the gear, including:
  • Shoes/boots, socks, underwear, bra, shirt, pants, hat, jacket, and rain gear.
  • Choose shoes or walking boots and wear them on long training days to break them in and ensure they perform.
  • Backpacks should be tested on longer training days to ensure they can be carried comfortably over long distances and have the necessary capacity.
  • Choose wicking fabrics that allow the skin to breathe and cool, especially under layers. (Justin De Sousa et al., 2014)
  • Individuals will want to wear gear similar to marathon walkers if the walk will mostly be on pavement or asphalt.
  • Individuals can modify their gear if the route is off-road or during different seasons. Find out what other long-distance walkers have worn on the same route or event.
  1. Individuals can connect with fellow walkers via social media or find answers to frequently asked questions on the event’s or destination’s website.
  2. Individuals can also contact the event director via the website or social media.

Nutrition

Proper sports nutrition will prepare the body for endurance activity.

  • For example, individuals are recommended to follow a diet comprising 70% carbohydrates, 20% protein, and 10% fat.
  • Avoid high-protein diets, as they can cause hydration problems and strain your kidneys under endurance walking conditions. (Marta Cuenca-Sánchez et al., 2015)
  • Train with the water, sports drinks, food, and snacks taken to the event, and do not deviate from them during the event.
  • Water is needed for 20 kilometers and under events, but an electrolyte replacement sports drink may be better for longer walks.
  • Diluting or leaving out some sugar can be easier on the stomach.
  1. Have snacks pre-packaged and labeled for the times to be eaten.
  2. Individuals need to eat fat and protein for ultramarathon distances – this can come from trail mix, peanut butter sandwiches, and chocolate bars with nuts.
  3. Carbohydrates can be provided by sports gels or energy bars.

It is recommended to avoid products made for short distances and power sports as they can cause digestive problems when walking longer distances.

Planning a Walk

Planning begins by setting goals. Considerations include:

  • Time of year
  • Distance
  • Transportation to the event
  • Event pace requirements
  • Altitude and hill profile
  • Climate

Individuals are recommended to:

  • Prepare by researching routes and trails.
  • Study the course maps to know what services are provided along the way and what individuals must bring.
  • Walk a long distance without a supporting event.
  • Contact individuals who have walked the course.
  • Know the terrain and areas of total sun, hills, pavement, natural trails, and shade.
  • If possible, drive the course to become familiar with it.
  • Individuals may be able to find apps designed for their route.

Taking Breaks and Resting

  • Regular breaks should be short – using the bathroom, eating a snack, rehydrating, tying shoes, or bandaging blisters.
  • The body can stiffen up quickly during breaks and take several minutes to regain walking pace after a long break.
  • Recommendations could be taking a walking break instead, which means continuing to walk but at a very slow pace.

Foot Care

Individuals will have found what works for them concerning shoes, boots, socks, etc., on the long training days to prevent blisters and injuries. It is recommended to try different strategies, which include:

  • Sports tape
  • Blister block pads
  • Sprays
  • Lubricants
  • Wicking and/or double-layered socks
  • Moleskin
  • Stop at the first sign of irritation along the walk and doctor the foot with tape, blister bandages, or whatever method works best.

The body was built for walking. Planning and training properly before taking a long-distance or multi-day walk will ensure a safe and enjoyable marathon.


Move Better, Live Better


References

De Sousa, J., Cheatham, C., & Wittbrodt, M. (2014). The effects of a moisture-wicking fabric shirt on the physiological and perceptual responses during acute exercise in the heat. Applied ergonomics, 45(6), 1447–1453. doi.org/10.1016/j.apergo.2014.04.006

Cuenca-Sánchez, M., Navas-Carrillo, D., & Orenes-Piñero, E. (2015). Controversies surrounding high-protein diet intake: satiating effect and kidney and bone health. Advances in nutrition (Bethesda, Md.), 6(3), 260–266. doi.org/10.3945/an.114.007716

Jumping Rope: Benefits for Balance, Stamina & Quick Reflexes

Jumping Rope: Benefits for Balance, Stamina & Quick Reflexes

Individuals trying to get and stay in shape can find it difficult to get a regular workout. Can jumping rope help when there is no time?

Jumping Rope: Benefits for Balance, Stamina & Quick Reflexes

Jumping Rope

Jumping rope can be a highly cost-effective exercise to incorporate high-intensity cardiovascular fitness into a workout routine. It is inexpensive, efficient, and done properly can improve cardiovascular health, improve balance and agility, increase muscular strength and endurance, and burn calories. (Athos Trecroci, et al., 2015)

  • Jumping rope can be utilized in interval training to keep the heart rate elevated and allow the muscles to rest in between weight lifting and other intense exercises.
  • A jump rope can be used when traveling as its portability makes it a top piece of workout gear.
  • It can be combined with bodyweight exercises for a dependable and portable exercise routine.

Benefits

Jumping rope is a medium-impact exercise with benefits that include:

  1. Improves balance, agility, and coordination
  2. Builds stamina and foot speed for coordination, agility, and quick reflexes.
  3. Variations include one-leg jumping and double unders or with each jump, the rope goes around twice to add difficulty.
  4. Builds Fitness Fast
  5. Burns calories
  • Depending on skill level and jumping rate, individuals can burn 10 to 15 calories a minute by jumping rope.
  • Faster rope jumping can burn calories similar to running.

Precautions

For individuals who have high blood pressure, jumping rope may not be recommended. The downward arm position can reduce blood circulation back to the heart which can further increase blood pressure. Studies have shown that jumping at a moderate intensity is beneficial for individuals who are pre-hypertensive. (Lisa Baumgartner, et al., 2020) Individuals with hypertension and/or a heart condition, are recommended to discuss the potential risks with their doctor before beginning a new exercise routine.

Choosing a Rope

  • Jump ropes are available and made from various materials and come with different handles.
  • Cordless jump ropes are great for working out in limited spaces.
  • Some of these materials help jump ropes spin faster with a smooth motion.
  • Some options have a swivel action between the cords and handles.
  • The rope you buy should be comfortable to hold and have a smooth spin.
  • Weighted jump ropes can help develop upper body muscle tone and endurance. (D. Ozer, et al., 2011) These ropes are not for beginners and are not necessary for an agility workout.
  • For individuals who want a weighted rope, be sure the weight is in the rope and not the handles to prevent straining the wrists, elbows, and/or shoulders.
  1. Size the rope by standing on the center of the rope
  2. Pull the handles up along the sides of the body.
  3. For beginners, the handles should just reach the armpits.
  4. As the individual’s skills and fitness develop, the rope can be shortened.
  5. A shorter rope spins faster, forcing more jumps.

Technique

Following proper technique will ensure a more safe and effective workout.

  • Start slowly.
  • The proper jumping form keeps the shoulders relaxed, elbows in, and slightly bent.
  • There should be very few upper-body movements.
  • The majority of the turning power and motion come from the wrists, not the arms.
  • During jumping, keep the knees slightly bent.
  • Bounce softly.
  • The feet should leave the floor just enough to allow the rope to pass.
  • Land softly on the balls of the feet to avoid knee injuries.
  • It is not recommended to jump high and/or land hard.
  • Jump on a surface that is smooth and free of obstacles.
  • Wood, a sports court, or a rubberized mat are recommended.

Warming Up

  • Before beginning jumping rope, do a light, 5 to 10-minute warm-up.
  • This can include walking or jogging in place, or slow-paced jumping.

Increase Time and Intensity Gradually

The exercise can be relatively intense and high-level.

  • Start slowly and increase gradually.
  • An individual might try three 30-second sets at the end of a routine workout for the first week.
  • Depending upon fitness level, individuals may feel nothing or some slight soreness in the calf muscles.
  • This can help determine how much to do for the next jump rope session.
  • Gradually increase the number of sets, or the duration, over several weeks until the body can go for about ten minutes of continuous jumping.
  • One way is to jump after each weight-lifting set or other circuit exercise – like adding jumping for 30 to 90 seconds in between exercise sets.

Stretch Out After

Sample Workouts

There are variations of workouts. Here are a few:

Double foot jump

  • This is the basic jump.
  • Both feet slightly lift off from the ground and land together.

Alternate foot jump

  • This uses a skipping step.
  • This allows landing more prominently on one foot after each spin.

Running step

  • A slight jog is incorporated while jumping.

High step

  • A moderate pace with a high knee raise increases intensity.

Rope jumping is a great addition to an interval training or cross-training routine that creates an efficient whole-body workout that incorporates both cardiovascular endurance and muscular strength.


Overcoming ACL Injury


References

Trecroci, A., Cavaggioni, L., Caccia, R., & Alberti, G. (2015). Jump Rope Training: Balance and Motor Coordination in Preadolescent Soccer Players. Journal of sports science & medicine, 14(4), 792–798.

Baumgartner, L., Weberruß, H., Oberhoffer-Fritz, R., & Schulz, T. (2020). Vascular Structure and Function in Children and Adolescents: What Impact Do Physical Activity, Health-Related Physical Fitness, and Exercise Have?. Frontiers in pediatrics, 8, 103. doi.org/10.3389/fped.2020.00103

Ozer, D., Duzgun, I., Baltaci, G., Karacan, S., & Colakoglu, F. (2011). The effects of rope or weighted rope jump training on strength, coordination and proprioception in adolescent female volleyball players. The Journal of sports medicine and physical fitness, 51(2), 211–219.

Van Hooren, B., & Peake, J. M. (2018). Do We Need a Cool-Down After Exercise? A Narrative Review of the Psychophysiological Effects and the Effects on Performance, Injuries and the Long-Term Adaptive Response. Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.), 48(7), 1575–1595. doi.org/10.1007/s40279-018-0916-2

Calisthenics Resistance Training

Calisthenics Resistance Training

Can adding calisthenics resistance training to a fitness routine provide health benefits like flexibility, balance, and coordination?

Calisthenics Resistance Training

Calisthenics Resistance Training

  • Calisthenics resistance training requires no equipment, they can be done with minimal space, and are a great way to get a quick burn.
  • They are a form of resistance training using your own body weight that is low-impact, which makes it accessible to individuals of all ages and fitness levels.
  • They effectively help build agility, and cardiovascular health, and improve balance, coordination, and flexibility.

Benefits

Muscle Strength

Because calisthenics are easily adaptable to any fitness level, require minimal or no equipment, and are great for beginners and experienced exercise enthusiasts it is a fantastic full-body workout and an excellent way to build strength and muscle. Research supports that calisthenics resistance training can improve muscle strength in various ways.

  • One study found that eight weeks of calisthenics not only improved posture and body mass index/BMI but can impact strength, even with exercises not routinely performed. (Thomas E, et al., 2017)
  • During the study, one group did calisthenics and the other maintained regular training routines.
  • The researchers discovered that the group that did calisthenics increased their repetitions of exercises that were not included.
  • The group who continued with their regular training routines did not improve on what they could do before the eight-week study. (Thomas E, et al., 2017)

Cardiovascular Fitness

  • Regular participation in calisthenic resistance training can lead to improved cardiovascular health, including increased endurance and a healthier heart.
  • Certain calisthenic exercises, like burpees and mountain climbers, are high-intensity movements that can increase heart rate and blood circulation just from the movements.
  • Gradually performing these exercises at a faster pace, research indicates could potentially experience the same cardiovascular benefits from interval or treadmill running. (Bellissimo GF, et al., 2022) – (Lavie CJ, et al., 2015)

Balance, Coordination, and Flexibility

  • The movements require a full range of motion that stretches and strengthens the muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
  • These exercises can help decrease the risk of injury and make daily physical activities easier to perform without over-exertion.
  • Incorporating calisthenics resistance training on a regular basis can help improve posture, balance, and flexibility, depending on which exercises are recommended.
  • Exercises like stretches, lunges, and squats help to improve flexibility and mobility.
  • Exercises like single-leg squats and one-arm push-ups can work the balance, coordination, and proprioception of the body.

Mental Health

  • Exercise, in general, is known to improve mood, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being.
  • Calisthenic resistance training can have additional impacts on mental well-being.
  • For example, the discipline and focus required to perform the movements can help concentration and mental clarity.
  • One study found that calisthenics can reduce cognitive decline and may be useful for dementia prevention. (Osuka Y, et al., 2020)
  • Another study found that calisthenics helped mental well-being in individuals with diseases like ankylosing spondylitis and multiple sclerosis. (Taspinar O, et al., 2015)

Types

Bodyweight exercises that use an individual’s own body weight as resistance are the foundation. Common examples include push-ups, squats, and lunges. An overview of some of the types of exercises.

Pulling

  • These exercises focus on training the muscles for pulling movements, which include the back, shoulders, and arms.
  • Examples include pull-ups, chin-ups, and rows.

Pushing

  • These exercises focus on training the muscles for pushing movements, like the chest, shoulders, and triceps.
  • Examples include dips, push-ups, and handstand push-ups.

Core

  • Core exercises focus on training the abdominal and lower back muscles, which are responsible for maintaining stability and balance.
  • Examples of core exercises include planks, sit-ups, and leg raises.

Single-Leg

  • Single-leg exercises focus on training one leg at a time.
  • These target the muscles of the legs, hips, and core.
  • Examples of single-leg exercises include single-leg squats, lunges, and step-ups.

Plyometric

  • Calisthenics resistance training focuses on powerful explosive movements.
  • Plyometric exercises challenge the muscles to work quickly and forcefully.
  • Examples include jump squats, clap push-ups, and box jumps.

Getting Started

  • Start by making sure calisthenics is an appropriate workout option, especially if you are a beginner or have pre-existing medical conditions.
  • Once cleared to exercise start with familiar movements that can be done with the correct form.
  • Pushups, bodyweight squats, planks, lunges, and other basic movements are a good place to start.
  • Make sure to warm up with light and easy motions that mimic the workout movements.
  • Aim to work each body part during the workout.
  • Try for at least two workouts a week.
  • It is recommended to split the movement patterns.
  • Reps can be counted or set a timer to switch exercises every minute. This is called EMOM-style or every minute on the minute.
  • Pick four to five exercises that target various areas.
  • For example, sit-ups can be done for the core, lunges for the glutes and thighs, planks can be done for the shoulders and core, and jumping jacks or jumping rope for cardiovascular.
  • Calisthenic resistance training is easily modifiable and can be adjusted to individual needs.

Core Strength


References

Thomas, E., Bianco, A., Mancuso, E. P., Patti, A., Tabacchi, G., Paoli, A., … & Palma, A. (2017). The effects of a calisthenics training intervention on posture, strength, and body composition. Isokinetics and exercise science, 25(3), 215-222.

Bellissimo, G. F., Ducharme, J., Mang, Z., Millender, D., Smith, J., Stork, M. J., Little, J. P., Deyhle, M. R., Gibson, A. L., de Castro Magalhaes, F., & Amorim, F. (2022). The Acute Physiological and Perceptual Responses Between Bodyweight and Treadmill Running High-Intensity Interval Exercises. Frontiers in physiology, 13, 824154. doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2022.824154

Osuka, Y., Kojima, N., Sasai, H., Ohara, Y., Watanabe, Y., Hirano, H., & Kim, H. (2020). Exercise Types and the Risk of Developing Cognitive Decline in Older Women: A Prospective Study. Journal of Alzheimer’s disease: JAD, 77(4), 1733–1742. doi.org/10.3233/JAD-200867

Taspinar, O., Aydın, T., Celebi, A., Keskin, Y., Yavuz, S., Guneser, M., Camli, A., Tosun, M., Canbaz, N., & Gok, M. (2015). Psychological effects of calisthenic exercises on neuroinflammatory and rheumatic diseases. Zeitschrift fur Rheumatologie, 74(8), 722–727. doi.org/10.1007/s00393-015-1570-9

Lavie, C. J., Lee, D. C., Sui, X., Arena, R., O’Keefe, J. H., Church, T. S., Milani, R. V., & Blair, S. N. (2015). Effects of Running on Chronic Diseases and Cardiovascular and All-Cause Mortality. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 90(11), 1541–1552. doi.org/10.1016/j.mayocp.2015.08.001

Improve Range of Motion: El Paso Back Clinic

Improve Range of Motion: El Paso Back Clinic

Range of motion – ROM measures the movement around a joint or body part. When stretching or moving certain body parts, like a muscle or joint, the range of motion is how far it can move. Individuals with a limited range of motion cannot move a specific body part or joint through its normal range. Measurements are different for everybody, but there are ranges that individuals should be able to achieve for proper function. The Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Team can address issues/problems with ROM through a personalized treatment plan to alleviate symptoms and restore mobility and flexibility.

Improve Range of Motion: EP's Chiropractic Specialist Team

Improve Range of Motion

Over 250 joints in the body move from extension to flexion and are responsible for all of the body’s movements. These include the ankles, hips, elbows, knees, and shoulders. Tightness in the hips and ankles can decrease ROM when lifting an object, limiting the muscles’ ability. Form and strength potential becomes limited and suffers from an inadequate ROM. When form and posture are compromised, pain and injuries can result. There are many reasons why this can occur, including:

  • Tight and stiff muscles.
  • Trying to use these muscles can worsen the condition, limiting ROM further.
  • A limited ROM in the back, neck, or shoulders may be due to the body being out of natural alignment.
  • Repetitive motions, injuries, and everyday wear and tear can shift proper alignment and limit movement.
  • Inflammation and swelling around the joints.
  • Pain symptoms that are causing mobility issues.
  • Joint disorders.

These symptoms can come from:

  • Injuries
  • Infections
  • Conditions like arthritis, brain, nerve, and/or muscle disorders.
  • A mild to moderate range reduction may be caused by a sedentary lifestyle or insufficient physical activity.

Daily Living

Decreased range of motion and poor mobility can hinder the body from lifting objects, job occupation performance, and household tasks. A healthy physical ability is what determines independent aging and optimal function.

  • Restoring a healthy range of motion can improve physical performance during work, home, and sports activities.
  • An improved range of motion allows the affected muscles to work at longer lengths, build strength and relieve tension.
  • A stronger muscle capable of contracting efficiently through larger ranges prevents and decreases the risk of injury.

Chiropractic Restoration

Chiropractic care can realign the body and improve range of motion to optimal levels.

Therapeutic and Percussive Massage

  • Massage therapy will release the tightness, keep the muscles loose, and increase circulation.
  • This prepares the body for chiropractic adjustments and spinal decompression.

Decompression and Adjustments

  • Non-surgical mechanical decompression realigns the body to a pliable state.
  • Chiropractic adjustments will reset any misalignments, restoring flexibility and mobility.

Exercises

  • A chiropractor will provide physical therapy-type exercises and stretches to mobilize the joints.
  • Targeted exercises and stretches will help to maintain the adjustments and strengthen the body to prevent ROM worsening and future injuries.

Secrets of Optimal Wellness


References

Behm, David G et al. “Acute effects of muscle stretching on physical performance, range of motion, and injury incidence in healthy active individuals: a systematic review.” Applied physiology, nutrition, and metabolism = Physiologie appliquee, nutrition et metabolisme vol. 41,1 (2016): 1-11. doi:10.1139/apnm-2015-0235

Calixtre, L B et al. “Manual therapy for the management of pain and limited range of motion in subjects with signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorder: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials.” Journal of oral rehabilitation vol. 42,11 (2015): 847-61. doi:10.1111/joor.12321

Fishman, Loren M. “Yoga and Bone Health.” Orthopedic nursing vol. 40,3 (2021): 169-179. doi:10.1097/NOR.0000000000000757

Lea, R D, and J J Gerhardt. “Range-of-motion measurements.” The Journal of Bone and joint surgery. American Volume vol. 77,5 (1995): 784-98. doi:10.2106/00004623-199505000-00017

Thomas, Ewan, et al. “The Relation Between Stretching Typology and Stretching Duration: The Effects on Range of Motion.” International Journal of sports medicine vol. 39,4 (2018): 243-254. doi:10.1055/s-0044-101146

Engaging The Core: El Paso Back Clinic

Engaging The Core: El Paso Back Clinic

The body’s core muscles are used for stability, balance, lifting, pushing, pulling, and movement. Engaging the core muscles means bracing and tightening the abdominal muscles, which include the latissimus dorsi/lats, paraspinal muscles, gluteus maximus/glutes, and trapezius/traps. When engaged, the trunk muscles help maintain spinal stability, support the spine and pelvis in sitting and resting positions and during dynamic movements, and help prevent injury.

Engaging The Core: EP Chiropractic Clinic

Engaging The Core

To know how to engage the core, individuals need to understand what the core is. The most important muscles for engaging the core include: These muscles are involved every time the body inhales and exhales, in posture control, and when using the bathroom, they start and stop the process.

Rectus Abdominis

  • The rectus abdominis muscle is responsible for the six-pack.
  • It’s a long, flat muscle that extends from the pubic bone to the sixth and seventh ribs.
  • The rectus abdominis is primarily responsible for bending the spine.

External Obliques

  • These are the muscles on either side of the rectus abdominis.
  • The external obliques allow the torso to twist, bend sideways, flex the spine, and compress the abdomen.

Internal Obliques

  • The internal obliques lie below the external obliques.
  • They work with the external obliques in the same functions.

Transverse Abdominis

  • This is the deepest layer of muscle in the abdomen.
  • It completely wraps around the torso and extends from the ribs to the pelvis.
  • The transverse abdominis are not responsible for spine or hip movement but for stabilizing the spine, compressing the organs, and supporting the abdominal wall.

Latissimus Dorsi

  • Commonly known as the lats, these muscles run along both sides of the spine from just below the shoulder blades to the pelvis.
  • The lats help stabilize the back, especially when extending the shoulders.
  • They also contribute to body ability when twisting from side to side.

Erector Spinae

  • The erector spinae muscles are on each side of the spine and extend down the back.
  • These muscles are responsible for extending and rotating the back and side-to-side movement.
  • These are considered postural muscles and are almost always working.

What Not To Do

Individuals learn from mistakes, which might make learning how to engage the core easier by understanding what not to do. Common examples of failing to or not engaging the core correctly.

  • The back slumps when sitting down – the upper body lacks strength and stability.
  • When bending, the stomach sticks out more.
  • Swaying or leaning far to one side when walking – lack of lower body strength causes balance and stability problems.
  • The lower abdomen and back present with discomfort and pain symptoms.

Training

Engaging the core decreases the chance of sustaining an injury at home, work, or exercising and can help with chronic back pain. It creates a stable musculature around the spine that keeps the vertebrae from over-flexing, over-extending, and bending too far to one side. Engaging the core muscles can mean different things, depending on what is trying to be achieved.

  • For example, if doing bending work, the muscles needed, and the order in which they contract differs from when trying to maintain balance while standing on one leg.
  • The muscles engaged will differ in their movement depending on whether an individual is:
  • Trying to move the spine or stabilize it.
  • Pushing or pulling weight.
  • Standing, sitting, or lying down.

For a strong and functional core, the objective is to be able to engage the core in any situation. Engaging the core can be challenging, but with training and practice, the body becomes stronger. Practice engaging the core throughout daily activities that include.

  • Bracing the core while standing, sitting at a workstation or desk, and walking.
  • Day-to-day activities, like reaching for something from a high shelf, grocery shopping, and taking the stairs.

Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic can create a personalized program to address musculoskeletal issues, core training, targeted exercise, stretching, nutrition, massage, and adjustments to get the body to optimal health and maintain health.


The Non-Surgical Solution


References

Eickmeyer, Sarah M. “Anatomy and Physiology of the Pelvic Floor.” Physical Medicine and rehabilitation clinics of North America vol. 28,3 (2017): 455-460. doi:10.1016/j.pmr.2017.03.003

Lawson, Samantha, and Ashley Sacks. “Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy and Women’s Health Promotion.” Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health vol. 63,4 (2018): 410-417. doi:10.1111/jmwh.12736

Seaman, Austin P et al. “Building a Center for Abdominal Core Health: The Importance of a Holistic Multidisciplinary Approach.” Journal of gastrointestinal surgery: official journal of the Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract vol. 26,3 (2022): 693-701. doi:10.1007/s11605-021-05241-5

Vining, Robert, et al. “Effects of Chiropractic Care on Strength, Balance, and Endurance in Active-Duty U.S. Military Personnel with Low Back Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” Journal of Alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.) vol. 26,7 (2020): 592-601. doi:10.1089/acm.2020.0107

Weis, Carol Ann, et al. “Chiropractic Care for Adults With Pregnancy-Related Low Back, Pelvic Girdle Pain, or Combination Pain: A Systematic Review.” Journal of Manipulative and physiological therapeutics vol. 43,7 (2020): 714-731. doi:10.1016/j.jmpt.2020.05.005

Zachovajeviene, B et al. “Effect of the diaphragm and abdominal muscle training on pelvic floor strength and endurance: results of a prospective randomized trial.” Scientific Reports vol. 9,1 19192. 16 Dec. 2019, doi:10.1038/s41598-019-55724-4

Mountain Biking Training Beginners: El Paso Back Clinic

Mountain Biking Training Beginners: El Paso Back Clinic

Mountain and trail biking is a fun way to exercise. Mountain biking requires total body/core strength, explosive power, balance, endurance, and agility to maneuver the bike, build speed, and absorb the rough bumps and terrain. But it also means that certain muscles get overused, causing overcompensation in the body that can lead to musculoskeletal problems and conditions. Strength, cardiovascular, and cross-fit can benefit mountain biking training for improved performance, safer and more confident riding, and injury prevention.

Mountain Biking Training Beginners: EP's Chiropractic Team

Mountain Biking Training

A few of the benefits of training are:

  • Increasing bone density.
  • Improving joint health.
  • Correcting imbalances and unhealthy posture.
  • Weight loss.
  • Aging muscle loss prevention.

Maintaining body posture centered on the bike requires core strength to perform the movements when moving the body backward and forwards, side to side, and pushing up and down when different obstacles pop up. The exercises’ objective is to work various body parts simultaneously and diagonally, like the movements used on the bike.

General Overview of Mountain Biking Training

  • Build strength – Target the quads, hamstrings, and abdominal muscles to power pedaling strokes.
  • Increase endurance – Avoid getting fatigued early because of weakened legs and aerobic performance.
  • Improve mountain bike skills – Ride faster and more efficiently by improving bike handling and technical skills.

Example Training Week

The terrain determines the intensity, but the same basic principles apply to mountain biking training as other endurance sports. Here’s a training example for a beginner that can be adjusted to the rider’s needs:

Monday

  • Stretching and training the muscles to relax prevent becoming stiff or cramping up during rides.

Tuesday

  • Beginner small hills trail ride.
  • The hills are equivalent to HIIT training.
  • Recover on the flats and downhills.

Wednesday

  • Light, short ride.
  • Focus on pedaling techniques and/or cornering drills.

Thursday

  • Medium-length trail ride on flat to rolling hills.
  • Keep it conversational pace and enjoy the trails.

Friday

  • Recovery day.
  • Stretching, massage, and foam rolling.

Saturday

  • Long trail ride.
  • Go at a conversational pace and have fun.
  • Don’t let technique fail when the body starts to get tired.

Sunday

  • Medium-length trail ride.
  • Go at a conversational pace.

Basic Skills

Practicing technical skills will prepare beginning mountain bikers for success. Here are a few basic skills to get started:

Cornering

  • Riding singletrack means making tight turns.
  • Cornering is a critical skill that should never stop being practiced and improved.

Cornering Drills

  • Pick a corner on a local trail and ride through it until mastered.
  • Focus on riding smoothly through the corner, and speed will generate.
  • As confidence builds in the corners, do the same on the opposite side.

Straighten Out

  • Ride to the furthest outside edge when approaching the turn.
  • Initiate the turn just before the sharpest point of the corner.
  • Stick to the furthest outside point of the corner when riding out of the corner.

Brake Before The Corner

  • Braking in the corner can cause the tires to slide out of control, causing a slip-and-fall accident.
  • Look through the turn as the bike follows where the eyes look.
  • Don’t stare at the front wheel, which could lead to a falling or flipping accident.
  • Eventually, riders can handle this technique, but it’s too advanced for beginners.

Smooth Ride

Beginners can be amazed at how much terrain bikes can ride over and through. Modern mountain bike suspension and tire systems can handle it. However, using the correct technique is essential to get through or around the obstacles and avoid crashes.

  • Stay aware of the surroundings.
  • Keep the body loose when approaching obstacles.
  • Decide how to overcome the obstacle – ride over, pop/raise the wheels, jump, or ride around.
  • Maintain confidence.
  • When riding over the obstacle, maintain an even balance on the pedals and keep the buttocks slightly off the saddle.
  • Keep arms and legs loose and let the body absorb the shock of the obstacle.
  • Trust the suspension and tires.
  • Ensure enough speed is generated to go over it and that it won’t stop the bike and cause a fall.
  • Some rough trail areas can require added strength to hold the bike steady.

Braking

  • There is no need to squeeze the brake handles with extreme force.
  • Extreme braking, especially the front, will likely lead to a flip or crash.
  • The brakes are made to stop with minimal force.
  • Beginners are recommended to learn to use a light touch when braking.
  • Improvement will follow with each riding session.

Foundation


References

Arriel, Rhaí André, et al. “Current Perspectives of Cross-Country Mountain Biking: Physiological and Mechanical Aspects, Evolution of Bikes, Accidents, and Injuries.” International journal of environmental research and public health vol. 19,19 12552. 1 Oct. 2022, doi:10.3390/ijerph191912552

Inoue, Allan, et al. “Effects of Sprint versus High-Intensity Aerobic Interval Training on Cross-Country Mountain Biking Performance: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” PloS one vol. 11,1 e0145298. 20 Jan. 2016, doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0145298

Kronisch, Robert L, and Ronald P Pfeiffer. “Mountain biking injuries: an update.” Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.) vol. 32,8 (2002): 523-37. doi:10.2165/00007256-200232080-00004

Muyor, J M, and M Zabala. “Road Cycling and Mountain Biking Produce Adaptations on the Spine and Hamstring Extensibility.” International Journal of sports medicine vol. 37,1 (2016): 43-9. doi:10.1055/s-0035-1555861

Ranchordas, Mayur K. “Nutrition for adventure racing.” Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.) vol. 42,11 (2012): 915-27. doi:10.1007/BF03262303

Field Hockey Conditioning: El Paso Back Clinic

Field Hockey Conditioning: El Paso Back Clinic

Field hockey is one of the world’s oldest team sports, dating back to the classical Greek era. It also is recognized as one of the oldest college sports in America. It is a game where teams composed of 11 players, including one goalkeeper, come together on a field and use hockey sticks to drive a ball into a net to score points. The winner is determined by whoever has the most points at the end of the game. The sport requires high aerobic and anaerobic fitness to provide endurance, strength to position, trap, pass, and hit the ball, push and flick the ball, and acceleration/speed and agility. Here we look at the basic fitness components and chiropractic care benefits.

Field Hockey Conditioning: EP Chiropractic Functional Team

Field Hockey

Aerobic Fitness

Field hockey players need to have high levels of endurance to perform. The game consists of 2 35 – minute halves, with a 10-minute break, plus stoppages. This consistent use of energy and muscular strength requires the cardiovascular system to supply oxygen through the blood.

  • A conditioning workout should include long-distance and interval training.
  • Long-distance running or biking is a great way to build up the endurance to run back and forth on the field.
  • To keep workouts fun, alternate between long-distance and interval.

Strength and Power

Players need to be physically strong to power through an opponent, drive the ball, or push the ball out from another player’s stick. Incorporating exercises that strengthen the entire body will help.

  • Body-weight workouts will work if you don’t have access to a gym or weights.
  • Squats, glute bridges, and lunges can help build a strong lower body.
  • Push-ups and tricep dips are great for the upper body.

Lower body injuries are common. The risk can be reduced by 50% through regular participation in a strength training program with a resistance component, such as neuromuscular training.

Agility

  • The ability to change direction quickly is important, as players will change direction at least every 5 seconds during a game.
  • Players should include interval training to increase quickness and agility.
  • Common agility drills are ladder drills, lateral sprints, and hill climbs.

Flexibility

  • Healthy hamstring and lower back flexibility maintain stability and balance, which is also important for injury prevention.
  • Yoga and simple stretches increase flexibility.

Field hockey fitness is about perfecting moves to become an automatic reaction.

Chiropractic Benefits

After putting their body through intense training, players can benefit from sports massage and chiropractic. Benefits include:

Increased Range of Motion

The sport requires a wide range of motion. A misaligned area like the spine and hips causes weakness in the muscles and tendons near the joints causing the player to take on awkward positioning that can lead to various neuromusculoskeletal issues and injuries. Chiropractic reset and realignment maintain body flexibility, muscle relaxation, optimal circulation and strengthen the areas causing weakness.

Enhanced Balance and Coordination

Balance and coordination are critical as the players sprint, shift, twist, and turn. The eyes and ears are the main balance components, but the nervous system plays a role. Chiropractic spinal alignment increases the nervous system’s function of sending signals to the rest of the body.

Speeds up Recovery From Injury

Chiropractic helps heal injury quicker because fluids and nutrients released after an adjustment will move toward the damage expediting healing. Chiropractic breaks up scar tissue and trigger points to rebuild that strength and stamina without the risk of worsening or further injury.

Chiropractic care will improve how the central nervous system communicates with the rest of the body.


Strength Training


References

Espí-López, Gemma V et al. “Effect of manual therapy versus proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation in dynamic balance, mobility and flexibility in field hockey players. A randomized controlled trial.” Physical therapy in sport: official journal of the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Sports Medicine vol. 32 (2018): 173-179. doi:10.1016/j.ptsp.2018.04.017

Krzykała, M et al. “Does field hockey increase morphofunctional asymmetry? A pilot study.” Homo : internationale Zeitschrift fur die vergleichende Forschung am Menschen vol. 69,1-2 (2018): 43-49. doi:10.1016/j.jchb.2018.03.003

Reilly, T, and A Borrie. “Physiology applied to field hockey.” Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.) vol. 14,1 (1992): 10-26. doi:10.2165/00007256-199214010-00002

Tapsell, Liam C et al. “Validity and Reliability of a Field Hockey-Specific Dribbling Speed Test.” Journal of strength and conditioning research vol. 36,6 (2022): 1720-1725. doi:10.1519/JSC.0000000000003700