Back and Spine Health Exercise: Exercise is one of the most significant ways to increase longevity, improve health, and decrease pain and suffering. A proper exercise program can improve flexibility, mobility, increase strength, and reduce back pain. Knowledge of the best exercises to improve health or decrease pain is essential to a workout plan or pain management program. Regular exercise is one of the best things you can do for overall health. The many benefits include improved health and fitness and reduced risk of chronic diseases.
There are many different types of exercise; it is important to pick the right types. Most benefits from a combination of exercises: Endurance or aerobic activities increase your breathing and heart rate. They keep your heart, lungs, and circulatory system healthy and improve your overall fitness. Examples include brisk walking, jogging, swimming, and biking.
Strength or resistance training, exercises make your muscles stronger. Some examples are lifting weights and using a resistance band. Balance exercises can make it easier to walk on uneven surfaces and help prevent falls. To improve your balance, try tai chi or exercises like standing on one leg. Flexibility exercises stretch your muscles and can help your body stay limber. Yoga and doing various stretches can make you more flexible.
Can individuals with osteoarthritis can incorporate cycling to reduce joint pain and regain their joint mobility?
Introduction
The joints in the musculoskeletal system allow the individual to be mobile while allowing the extremities to do their jobs. Just like the muscles and ligaments of the body, the joints can also wear and tear through repetitive motions, leading to joint pain in the extremities. Over time, the wear and tear from the joints can lead to the potential development of osteoarthritis, which then can affect joint mobility and lead to a life of pain and misery for individuals. However, numerous ways exist to reduce osteoarthritis’s pain-like symptoms and help restore joint mobility through cycling. Today’s article looks at how osteoarthritis affects the joints, how cycling is incorporated for osteoarthritis, and how it can reduce joint pain. We discuss with certified associated medical providers who consolidate our patients’ information to assess osteoarthritis and its associated pain symptoms affecting the joints in the extremities. We also inform and guide patients while asking their associated medical provider intricate questions to integrate cycling into their personalized treatment plan to manage the pain correlated with osteoarthritis affecting their joints. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., includes this information as an academic service. Disclaimer.
Osteoarthritis Affecting Joint Mobility
Do you feel pain and stiffness every morning in your joints only for it to feel better throughout the day? Do you experience pain in your knees, hips, and hands? Or have you noticed that your range of motion has decreased drastically? Many individuals, both young and old, can be affected by these pain-like issues and could be at risk of developing osteoarthritis in their joints. Osteoarthritis is the largest and most common musculoskeletal condition that causes a disturbance of the inflammatory cytokine balance, damaging the cartilage and other intra-articular structures surrounding the joints. (Molnar et al., 2021) This is because osteoarthritis develops over time, causing the cartilage to wear away and causing the connecting bones to rub against each other. This, in turn, can affect the extremity’s joint mobility, causing symptoms of stiffness, pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion to the joints.
Additionally, osteoarthritis is multifactorial as it can cause an imbalance in the joints due to genetics, environmental, metabolic, and traumatic factors that can contribute to its development. (Noriega-Gonzalez et al., 2023) This is because repetitive motions and environmental factors can impact the body and cause overlapping risk profiles to correlate with osteoarthritis. Some overlapping risk profiles associated with osteoarthritis are pathological changes in the joint structure that cause abnormal loading on the joints, which causes joint malalignment and muscle weakness. (Nedunchezhiyan et al., 2022) This causes many people to be in constant pain and trying to find relief from joint pain associated with osteoarthritis.
Chiropractic Solutions For Osteoarthritis-Video
Cycling For Osteoarthritis
Engaging in physical activities may seem daunting when managing osteoarthritis symptoms, but it can help restore joint mobility while reducing the pain associated with osteoarthritis. One of the physical activities that has little impact and does not impact the joints is cycling. Cycling for osteoarthritis has many beneficial properties as it can:
Strengthen surrounding muscles
Retain joint mobility
Improve range of motion
Weight management
Enhancing cardiovascular health
Cycling can help the individual focus on strengthening the lower extremity muscles surrounding the joints, which can help improve pain and functionality. (Katz et al., 2021) This, in turn, helps provide better support and stability to the joints, thus reducing overload on the body while minimizing the risk of injuries. Additionally, cycling can help improve many individuals looking for a healthier change and increase bone mineral density in the joints, thus decreasing the risk of fractures. (Chavarrias et al., 2019)
Cycling Reducing Joint Pain
Cycling is a safe and effective exercise for anyone, whether they’re just starting or haven’t been active for a while. The key to optimal recovery and joint functionality is to consult a doctor. This ensures that cycling is a safe option for you, helps you choose the right bike, and provides guidance on how to start slowly, warm up and stretch, maintain proper form, and stay consistent with the cycling sessions. This professional guidance is crucial, as it allows many individuals with joint pain to achieve complete functional recovery to their joints. (Papalia et al., 2020) Cycling is an excellent way to manage osteoarthritis and its associated symptoms. For many individuals with osteoarthritis, this low-impact exercise can be a game-changer, promoting muscle strengthening, improving joint range of motion, and helping alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms.
References
Chavarrias, M., Carlos-Vivas, J., Collado-Mateo, D., & Perez-Gomez, J. (2019). Health Benefits of Indoor Cycling: A Systematic Review. Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania), 55(8). doi.org/10.3390/medicina55080452
Katz, J. N., Arant, K. R., & Loeser, R. F. (2021). Diagnosis and Treatment of Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis: A Review. JAMA, 325(6), 568-578. doi.org/10.1001/jama.2020.22171
Molnar, V., Matisic, V., Kodvanj, I., Bjelica, R., Jelec, Z., Hudetz, D., Rod, E., Cukelj, F., Vrdoljak, T., Vidovic, D., Staresinic, M., Sabalic, S., Dobricic, B., Petrovic, T., Anticevic, D., Boric, I., Kosir, R., Zmrzljak, U. P., & Primorac, D. (2021). Cytokines and Chemokines Involved in Osteoarthritis Pathogenesis. Int J Mol Sci, 22(17). doi.org/10.3390/ijms22179208
Nedunchezhiyan, U., Varughese, I., Sun, A. R., Wu, X., Crawford, R., & Prasadam, I. (2022). Obesity, Inflammation, and Immune System in Osteoarthritis. Front Immunol, 13, 907750. doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2022.907750
Noriega-Gonzalez, D., Caballero-Garcia, A., Roche, E., Alvarez-Mon, M., & Cordova, A. (2023). Inflammatory Process on Knee Osteoarthritis in Cyclists. J Clin Med, 12(11). doi.org/10.3390/jcm12113703
Papalia, R., Campi, S., Vorini, F., Zampogna, B., Vasta, S., Papalia, G., Fossati, C., Torre, G., & Denaro, V. (2020). The Role of Physical Activity and Rehabilitation Following Hip and Knee Arthroplasty in the Elderly. J Clin Med, 9(5). doi.org/10.3390/jcm9051401
For individuals living with chronic pain and various diseases like Parkinson’s, arthritis, and diabetes, can water aerobics be beneficial?
Water Aerobics
Water aerobics are low-impact exercises performed commonly in swimming pools. It is a great way to exercise for a full-body, low-impact workout without overworking the body’s joints and muscles. Other names used include:
Aquafitness
Aqua aerobics
Aquarobics
Many types can be tailored to individual needs, injuries, and/or conditions. The exercises have various health benefits, especially for those who cannot perform higher-impact movements.
Individuals participating in water aerobics will need a bathing suit, towel, goggles, and a swim cap to protect their eyes or hair from chlorinated water. Individuals do not need other special equipment while exercising as the water acts as extra resistance. Foam dumbbells or paddles can be used to increase resistance. Other optional equipment includes: (Plunge San Diego, 2024) (Harvard Health Publishing Harvard Medical School, 2023)
Kickboards
Wrist and ankle weights
Water-jogging belts
Swim bar
Pool Exercises
There are many types of pool exercises to help reach health and fitness goals. They include:
Water Walking
The basic act of walking in water is a great way to get a full-body workout.
Start by standing in waist-deep water with the feet planted on the bottom of the pool.
Lengthen the spine by bringing the shoulders up and back and aligning the shoulders with the hips and knees.
Once in a good starting position, walk through the water, putting pressure on the heel first and then the toes, just like walking out of the water, while swinging the arms back and forth through the water.
This exercise can be done for five to 10 minutes.
The muscles that will get the most attention are the arms, core, and the lower body.
Arm Lifts
Stand up to the shoulders in water.
With the palms facing up, draw the elbows into the torso while lifting the forearms in front of the body up to the water’s surface.
Once at the surface, rotate the palms to face down and slowly move the forearms back down to the sides.
For more resistance, this exercise can also be done using foam dumbbells.
Repeat the action 10–15 times for one to three sets.
The muscles targeted are the core and the arm muscles.
Jumping Jacks
Water resistance makes jumping jacks in the water much more difficult than on land.
To perform, start by standing in chest-level water with your feet together and your arms straight down the sides.
Once in position, begin by simultaneously swinging the legs out to the side and arms over the head before returning to the starting position.
Muscles targeted include the entire body and cardiovascular system.
Add wrist or ankle weights for more resistance and to make the exercise more challenging.
High-Knee-Lift Extensions
High-knee-lift extensions are performed while standing in water that is waist deep.
To do the exercise, engage the core and lift one leg in a bent position until it is level with the water’s surface.
Hold the position for a few seconds, then extend the leg out in front and hold again.
After the hold period, move the leg back down through the water to the starting position while keeping it straight and flexing the foot.
Repeat on both legs for two to three sets of 15 reps per leg.
Use weights on the ankles to increase resistance.
The muscles targeted include the core, glutes, and lower body.
Risks
While exercising in water, individuals may not notice how much they sweat. This can make it seem like the workout is not as hard and can lead to dehydration. Individuals should always hydrate before and after a pool workout. Individuals who cannot swim well should avoid exercises that do not require a flotation device. Sometimes pools are heated, so choosing one 90 degrees F or below is recommended so the body doesn’t get overheated while exercising.
Stop Pool Exercises Immediately
Performing pool exercises can often seem easier than they are, leading to overworking. Stop exercising immediately if you feel:
Pain in any area of the body
Shortness of breath
Nauseated
Faint
Dizzy
Pressure in the upper body or chest
Other Health Conditions That Benefit
Water aerobics is recommended for most individuals, completely healthy or with a chronic disease. Those with chronic disease have been shown to benefit from the low-impact exercise. (Faíl, L. B. et al., 2022) One study looked at individuals with various health conditions, with the results showing that the following conditions saw improvements after 12 weeks of regular water exercise (Faíl, L. B. et al., 2022)
Diabetes
Arthritis
Fibromyalgia
Bone diseases
High blood pressure
Coronary artery disease
Stroke
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Parkinson’s disease
While the benefits of water aerobics have been studied and proven effective, individuals should be cleared by a medical professional before starting any new exercise regimen. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to develop an optimal health and wellness solution through an integrated approach to treating injuries and chronic pain syndromes, improving flexibility, mobility, and agility programs to relieve pain and help individuals return to normal. Our providers create personalized care plans for each patient. If other treatments are needed, Dr. Jimenez has teamed up with top surgeons, clinical specialists, medical researchers, and rehabilitation providers to provide the most effective treatments.
Pereira Neiva, H., Brandão Faíl, L., Izquierdo, M., Marques, M. C., & Marinho, D. A. (2018). The effect of 12 weeks of water-aerobics on health status and physical fitness: An ecological approach. PloS one, 13(5), e0198319. doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0198319
Faíl, L. B., Marinho, D. A., Marques, E. A., Costa, M. J., Santos, C. C., Marques, M. C., Izquierdo, M., & Neiva, H. P. (2022). Benefits of aquatic exercise in adults with and without chronic disease-A systematic review with meta-analysis. Scandinavian journal of medicine & science in sports, 32(3), 465–486. doi.org/10.1111/sms.14112
Can various stretches provide beneficial results for individuals experiencing TMJ pain by providing relief to the jaw?
Introduction
Many individuals use their jaws to communicate with one another, eat delicious food, and express themselves. The jaw is part of the upper extremities as it has five muscles that allow it to function when the mouth is opening or closing, chewing, and moving from side to side. When common motor functions like yawning, chewing, or speaking produce loud pops or clicks, it can become very painful and more often lead to temporomandibular joint dysfunction or TMJ. TMJ is a joint disorder that can affect a person’s ability to use their jaws properly and can lead to visceral-somatic disorders that can affect the upper extremities, causing them to be miserable. Luckily, many individuals can incorporate various stretches to reduce the impact of TMJ and help relax the stiff muscles around the jaw. Today’s article looks at the effects of TMJ, how various stretches can effectively reduce TMJ, and how additional non-surgical treatments can relieve TMJ pain. We discuss with certified associated medical providers who consolidate our patients’ information to assess pain-like issues associated with TMJ. We also inform and guide patients on various stretches for TMJ and ask their associated medical providers intricate questions to integrate a customized treatment plan to reduce the pain-like issues affecting their jaws. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., includes this information as an academic service. Disclaimer.
The Effects of TMJ
Do you feel stiffness in your jaw after clenching for an extended period? Do you hear excessive loud clicks when opening or closing your jaw? Or do you think your jaw is locking up constantly, making it difficult to open or close your mouth? When many individuals start to feel pain around their jaws excessively, many would often think that it could be tooth pain, but in actuality, it is the temporomandibular joint that is causing the issues. Temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ, can be developed through various causes that can impact a person’s jaw and can lead to pain and discomfort. Mechanical factors like jaw injuries, arthritis, teeth clenching, and grinding can cause excessive or unbalanced joint loading to the jaw, which can progress the development of TMJ. (Cardoneanu et al., 2022) When dealing with TMJ, pain can lead to symptoms of tenderness around the joint area of the jaw, difficulty chewing, ear pain, and stiffness.
At the same time, the effects of TMJ pain are often characterized by localized discomfort, as TMJ is a multifactorial musculoskeletal and neuromuscular disorder that can be difficult to diagnose. (Alolayan et al., 2022) This is because of how many individuals chew their foods on one side, which can lead to its development. When the masseter muscles of the jaw begin to overload on the TMJ, it can initiate remodeling on the non-working side of the jaw and cause the pain to flourish over time. (Santana-Mora et al., 2013) However, when dealing with TMJ pain, many individuals can seek out various treatment options that can reduce muscular impairment and disc displacement from the jaw and help improve the mandibular range of motion. (Brighenti et al., 2023)
The Science of Motion-Video
Why Stretching Helps With TMJ
When it comes to reducing TMJ pain, many individuals can seek out non-surgical treatments to reduce the overlapping pain symptoms and restore jaw function. Some of the main objectives that many pain specialists can take into account when dealing with TMJ pain are reducing reflex masticatory muscle pain and helping increase TMJ function through various treatments that can have a positive impact on the jaw. (Ferrillo et al., 2022) Some non-surgical treatments include multiple stretches to help relax the surrounding muscles and jaw and alleviate the tension and discomfort associated with TMJ.
Effective Stretches For TMJ Relief
Stretching can be part of a person’s personalized treatment plan to reduce TMJ pain and its associated comorbidities. Stretching and strengthening exercises can positively affect pain while improving the range of TMJ movement and helping many individuals restore their jaw motor function (Byra et al., 2020). Below are some of the stretches that can help reduce TMJ pain and relax the jaw muscles.
Relaxed Jaw Exercise
How to Do It: Place the tongue gently on the roof of the mouth behind the upper front teeth. This allows the teeth to come apart while relaxing the jaw muscles.
Benefits: This exercise helps relax the jaw and ease muscle tension.
Partial Goldfish Exercises
How to Do It: Place the tongue gently on the roof of the mouth and one finger in front of the ear where the TMJ is located. Place your middle finger on your chin. Drop your lower jaw halfway and close. Perform this exercise six times in one set.
Benefits: This stretch helps target the jaw’s range of motion and reduce joint stiffness.
Full Goldfish Exercises
How to Do It: Similar to the partial opening, but open your mouth fully this time.
Benefits: This stretch helps enhance the full range of motion and reduce joint stiffness.
Chin Tucks
How to Do It: Sitting upright in a chair, pulling your chin straight back, creating a “double chin.” Hold for three seconds, and then release.
Benefits: This exercise helps strengthen the neck muscles, improves posture, and reduces strain on the jaw.
Additional Tips To Reduce TMJ
Along with these stretches, additional tips for managing and reducing TMJ by avoiding excessive jaw movements and applying hot/cold packs to reduce any residual inflammation correlating with TMJ. When people with TMJ start incorporating non-surgical treatments and stretches to relieve the pain, it can help increase the mandibular active range of motion and provide beneficial relief. (Urbanski et al., 2021) This, in turn, allows many people with TMJ pain to be more mindful of the body and make small changes in their health and well-being.
References
Alolayan, A., Alsayed, S. S., Salamah, R. M., Ali, K. M., Alsousi, M., & Elsayed, S. (2022). Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders prevalence and awareness of appropriate clinical practices, among Al-Madinah community in Saudi Arabia. F1000Res, 11, 395. doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.104272.2
Brighenti, N., Battaglino, A., Sinatti, P., Abuin-Porras, V., Sanchez Romero, E. A., Pedersini, P., & Villafane, J. H. (2023). Effects of an Interdisciplinary Approach in the Management of Temporomandibular Disorders: A Scoping Review. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 20(4). doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20042777
Byra, J., Kulesa-Mrowiecka, M., & Pihut, M. (2020). Physiotherapy in hypomobility of temporomandibular joints. Folia Med Cracov, 60(2), 123-134. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/33252600
Cardoneanu, A., Macovei, L. A., Burlui, A. M., Mihai, I. R., Bratoiu, I., Rezus, II, Richter, P., Tamba, B. I., & Rezus, E. (2022). Temporomandibular Joint Osteoarthritis: Pathogenic Mechanisms Involving the Cartilage and Subchondral Bone, and Potential Therapeutic Strategies for Joint Regeneration. Int J Mol Sci, 24(1). doi.org/10.3390/ijms24010171
Ferrillo, M., Giudice, A., Marotta, N., Fortunato, F., Di Venere, D., Ammendolia, A., Fiore, P., & de Sire, A. (2022). Pain Management and Rehabilitation for Central Sensitization in Temporomandibular Disorders: A Comprehensive Review. Int J Mol Sci, 23(20). doi.org/10.3390/ijms232012164
Santana-Mora, U., Lopez-Cedrun, J., Mora, M. J., Otero, X. L., & Santana-Penin, U. (2013). Temporomandibular disorders: the habitual chewing side syndrome. PLOS ONE, 8(4), e59980. doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0059980
Urbanski, P., Trybulec, B., & Pihut, M. (2021). The Application of Manual Techniques in Masticatory Muscles Relaxation as Adjunctive Therapy in the Treatment of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 18(24). doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182412970
For individuals looking to improve their fitness health, can a fitness assessment test identify potential areas and help evaluate overall health and physical status?
Fitness Assessment
A fitness test, also known as a fitness assessment, helps evaluate an individual’s overall and physical health. It comprises a series of exercises to design an appropriate exercise program for general health and fitness. (National Strength and Conditioning Association. 2017) Fitness assessment testing benefits include:
Identifying areas that need improvement.
Assisting professionals in understanding what types of exercise are safest and most effective.
Helping measure fitness progress over time.
Allowing for an individualized plan that can help prevent injuries and maintain the body’s overall health.
An assessment can comprise a wide range of tests, including:
Body composition tests.
Cardiovascular stress tests.
Endurance tests.
Range of motion tests.
They are meant to ensure the individual won’t be at risk of injury and provide the trainer with the insights needed to establish clear and effective fitness goals. Individuals who wonder whether fitness testing would benefit them should consult their healthcare provider.
General Health
Before starting a fitness program, it is important to inform the trainer of individual medical history and get the necessary approval from a primary healthcare provider. (Harvard Health Publishing. Harvard Medical School. 2012) Fitness specialists usually use one or more screening tools to help determine individual baseline health.
This may include obtaining vital sign measurements like height and weight, resting heart rate/RHR, and resting blood pressure/RBP. Many trainers will also use a physical activity readiness questionnaire/PAR-Q comprising questions about general health. (National Academy of Sports Medicine. 2020) Among the questions, individuals may be asked about the medications being taken, any problems with dizziness or pain, or medical conditions that may impair their ability to exercise.
Body Composition
Body composition describes total body weight components, including muscles, bones, and fat. The most common methods for estimating body composition include:
Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis – BIA
During BIA, electrical signals are sent from electrodes through the soles of the feet to the abdomen to estimate body composition. (Doylestown Health. 2024)
These measurements use calipers to estimate the amount of body fat in a fold of skin.
Cardiovascular Endurance
Cardiovascular endurance testing, also known as stress testing, measures how efficiently the heart and lungs work to supply oxygen and energy to the body during physical activity. (UC Davis Health, 2024) The three most common tests used include:
12-minute Run Tests
Twelve-minute run tests are performed on a treadmill, and an individual’s pre-exercise heart and respiration rates are compared with post-exercise heart and respiration rates.
Exercise Stress
Exercise stress testing is performed on a treadmill or stationary bike.
It involves using a heart monitor and blood pressure cuff to measure vital signs during exercise.
VO2 Max Testing
Performed on a treadmill or stationary bike.
V02 max testing uses a breathing device to measure the maximum rate of oxygen consumption during physical activity (UC Davis Health, 2024)
Some trainers will incorporate exercises like sit-ups or push-ups to measure response to specific exercises.
These baseline results can be used later to see if health and fitness levels have improved.
Strength and Endurance
Muscle endurance testing measures the length of time a muscle group can contract and release before it fatigues. Strength testing measures the maximal amount of force a muscle group can exert. (American Council on Exercise, Jiminez C., 2018) The exercises used include:
The push-up test.
Core strength and stability test.
Sometimes, a trainer will use a metronome to measure how long the individual can keep up with the rhythm. The results are then compared to individuals of the same age group and sex to establish a baseline level. Strength and endurance tests are valuable as they help the trainer spot which muscle groups are stronger, vulnerable, and need focused attention. (Heyward, V. H., Gibson, A. L. 2014).
Flexibility
Measuring the flexibility of joints is vital in determining whether individuals have postural imbalances, foot instability, or limitations in range of motion. (Pate R, Oria M, Pillsbury L, 2012)
Shoulder Flexibility
Shoulder flexibility testing evaluates the flexibility and mobility of the shoulder joint.
It is performed by using one hand to reach behind the neck, between the shoulders, and the other hand to reach behind the back, toward the shoulders, to measure how far apart the hands are. (Baumgartner TA, PhD, Jackson AS, PhD et al., 2015)
Fitness assessment testing has various benefits. It can help trainers design a personalized workout program, help individuals identify fitness areas that need improvement, measure progress, and add intensity and endurance to their routine, which can help prevent injuries and help maintain overall health. We focus on what works for you and strive to better the body through researched methods and total wellness programs. These natural programs use the body’s ability to achieve improvement goals. Ask a healthcare professional or fitness professional for guidance if you need advice.
Pate R, Oria M, Pillsbury L, (Eds). (2012). Health-related fitness measures for youth: Flexibility. In R. Pate, M. Oria, & L. Pillsbury (Eds.), Fitness Measures and Health Outcomes in Youth. doi.org/10.17226/13483
“For individuals who want to exercise but have fears or concerns, can understanding what they are scared of help ease their minds?”
Overcoming Exercise Fears
One reason for the ongoing weight problem is that individuals don’t move around enough, and one reason individuals don’t exercise is fear (Craig M. Hales et al., 2020). For individuals, physical exertion and moving the body to the point of increased heart rate, heavy breathing, and excessive sweating can cause anxiety and be scary when they haven’t done it in a while or have never worked out. Some anxieties and fears individuals may experience include the following:
Looking Foolish
Anything can happen when exercising. When individuals can’t figure out how a machine works or aren’t sure if they’re doing an exercise correctly, falling off a machine or dropping a weight can cause a feeling of foolishness. Knowing how to use machines and weights takes practice. Ask a gym employee or personal trainer for guidance, as educating individuals on doing exercises correctly and safely is their job. And most individuals working out are happy to help as well.
Experiencing Pain
Some avoid exercise, fearing intense pain. Exercise is not supposed to be painful, but it will cause soreness because individuals use muscles that they haven’t used for a while or at all. For instance, the muscles will experience a slight burning sensation when lifting weights. The body reacts to the workout and adapts to exercise. As the body gets stronger, individuals recognize their body’s response and are able to challenge themselves with heavier weights, longer runs, walks, and workouts. When beginning an exercise program, start slow. Some trainers recommend doing slightly less than an individual thinks they can for the first weeks. This helps to build a habit without the risk of burnout.
Injuries
When starting an exercise program, individuals can feel changes all over their bodies, like everything is pulling and tearing apart. Individuals who haven’t exercised much may be unable to distinguish between the normal discomfort from exercising for the first time and pain from an injury. Shin splints, side stitches, or other common side effects may develop from beginning an exercise program. Individuals may need to stop exercising, treat the injury, and start again.
If there are sharp pains in the joints, tearing in the muscles or ligaments, or anything else that doesn’t feel normal, stop and seek medical attention.
Exercise Mindfulness
The body will feel something while exercising, but separating real injury pain from normal sensations is important.
Be aware of how the body feels throughout the workout.
Follow instructions and pay attention to proper form to minimize the risk of injury.
Proper Footwear
Wearing the right workout shoes is a good idea to avoid and prevent injuries.
Invest in a quality pair of shoes to give the body the support it needs.
Proper Form
If lifting weights, one way to sustain an injury is using incorrect form or posture.
If you are unsure how to do the exercises, consult a trainer or gym employee to explain how the machine works.
Warm Up
Jumping into a workout without warming up can lead to injuries that can lead to chronic pain conditions.
If lifting weights, do a little cardiovascular exercise first or a warm-up set with lighter weights.
Workout Within Fitness Levels
Injuries happen when trying to do too much too soon.
Start with a light program.
Work up to more intense and frequent workouts.
For example, if only able to walk for 10 minutes, start there and increase gradually.
Failure
When it comes to exercise, failure can be experienced in different ways, like losing weight, failing to make it through a workout, being unable to stick to an exercise program, etc. This is part of the process, but individuals can overcome exercise fears through perseverance.
Setting the bar too high can become an excuse to quit.
A simple way to deal with this is to set a reachable goal.
Long-term goals can be set to work toward.
Do what you can handle now.
Individuals take risks whenever they do something out of their comfort zone. However, taking risks may be necessary to overcome exercise fears, keep going, and achieve success.
Weight Loss Techniques
References
Hales CM, C. M., Fryar CD, Ogden CL. (2020). Prevalence of obesity and severe obesity among adults: United States, 2017–2018. NCHS Data Brief, no 360. Hyattsville, MD: National Center for Health Statistics. Retrieved from www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db360.htm#Suggested_citation
“Can understanding moderate exercise and how to measure the amount of exercise help expedite individuals’ health goals and well-being?”
Moderate Exercise
Various physical activity guidelines recommend regular, moderate exercise for achieving and maintaining health and wellness. Getting the minimum, moderate weekly physical activity can help prevent disease, increase mental well-being, support weight loss and maintenance, and improve quality of life.
Moderate-intensity cardiovascular exercise includes – brisk walking, yard work, mopping, vacuuming, and playing various sports that require consistent movement.
When engaged in moderate exercise, individuals should breathe harder but still be able to carry a conversation. (American Heart Association, 2024)
The talk test is a way to monitor whether the exercise is at moderate intensity.
A heart rate chart or calculator can determine an individual’s maximum heart rate.
To measure heart rate mid-exercise, individuals can take their pulse or use a heart rate monitor, app, fitness tracker, or smartwatch to ensure they stay at a moderate intensity.
MET
M.E.T. stands for Metabolic Equivalent for Task and refers to the amount of oxygen the body uses during physical activity.
Assigning METs to an activity allows individuals to compare the amount of exertion an activity takes.
This works for individuals with different weights.
During moderate physical activity, breathing and heart rate increase, and the body burns around 3.5 to 7 calories a minute.
The actual number burned depends on your weight and fitness level.
The body uses 1 MET for basic functions like breathing.
Grades of activity:
1 MET – Body at rest
2 METs – Light activity
3-6 METs – Moderate activity
7 or more METs – Vigorous activity
Perceived Exertion Scale
Individuals can also check their activity level using the Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion scale/RPE. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022) Using this scale involves monitoring how an individual feels about how hard their body is working during physical activity. The scale starts at 6 and ends at 20. A perceived exertion between 11 and 14 is considered moderate physical activity.
6 – No exertion – sitting still or sleeping
7-8 – Extremely light exertion
9-10 – Very light exertion
11-12 – Light exertion
13-14 – Somewhat hard exertion
15-16 – Heavy exertion
17-18 – Very heavy exertion
20 – Maximum exertion
Examples
Many activities are counted as moderate-intensity exercise. Choose some appealing and learn to add them to a weekly routine.
Ballroom dancing
Line dancing
Gardening
House chores that get the heart pumping.
Softball
Baseball
Volleyball
Doubles tennis
Brisk walking
Light jogging
Walking or jogging on a treadmill
Using an elliptical trainer
Bicycling under 10 miles an hour on ground level
Leisurely swim
Water aerobics
Mobility Challenges
Individuals with mobility issues can achieve moderate intensity using a manual wheelchair or a handcycle and swimming or water aerobics.
Individuals who can use their legs but can’t tolerate walking or jogging can try bicycling or swimming.
Getting More Exercise
There are different ways to incorporate and increase moderate physical activities. These include:
10-minute Activity Bursts
Walk briskly for at least 10 minutes at a time.
Walk at an easy pace for a couple of minutes.
Pick up the pace for 10 minutes.
Try to walk during work breaks or lunch and/or before or after work.
Walking Workouts
Individuals can walk indoors, outdoors, or on a treadmill.
Proper posture and walking techniques make it easier to achieve a brisk pace.
Once comfortable walking briskly for 10 minutes, begin to extend walking time.
Try different walking workouts that offer fast walks, jogging intervals, and/or adding hills or treadmill inclines.
New Activities
Individuals are recommended to experiment with various exercises to find what works for them.
Consider roller skating, blading, or skateboarding to increase heart rate.
Moderate physical activity will get and keep the body in shape. Individuals should not become distressed if they can only do a little at first. Allow time to build endurance and gradually make time each day for enjoyable physical activities.
For individuals that are feeling unmotivated to work out and exercise can developing a fitness mindset help improve and maintain motivation?
Fitness Mindset Motivation
Learning to exercise as part of a regular workout routine can have a significant impact on health and well-being. In the beginning, individuals are all in, but as time goes on, mental blocks can interfere with workout motivation. Being flexible with oneself and fitness/health goals is part of the process, and overcoming mental blocks is key to maintaining motivation. It’s all about creating a fitness mindset to maintain confidence and motivation and enjoy the benefits of regular exercise.
Feeling Tired
When feeling tired, individuals should ask themselves if it’s physical or mental fatigue. If the exhaustion is not from lack of sleep, illness, or a physically demanding job, it is more than likely mental tiredness. Mental exhaustion can often feel physical, and a recommended cure is physical activity. Often, once an individual starts working out and gets over the mental fatigue, they feel better. (Juriena D. de Vries et al., 2016) Regular physical activity can increase energy levels and leave the body feeling less fatigued. (Bryan D. Loy et al., 2013) However, individuals need to make sure there is ample recovery time to repair and restore the body after working out.
Self-Talk
Sometimes there is a small voice that says to take a day off or perform an easier workout. It’s okay to be flexible, but most times, individuals need to be ready to stand up to the skip-the-workout voices and stay motivated.
Remove Obstacles
Remove obstacles that can distract from exercising.
Have the workout gear ready and exercise time pre-scheduled so there are no second thoughts.
If limited space is an issue, find compact equipment like a cordless jump rope that doesn’t require a lot of room.
Don’t Allow Relaxation Takeover
Individuals who plan to exercise after school or work shouldn’t go home, sit down, and relax watching TV before working out.
Individuals who may need a transition to work out should try something gentle but active, like stretching or doing a light chore.
Individuals who exercise in the morning should wear their workout clothes immediately, so they can’t second guess and can continue their workout.
Remind yourself of the reasons for committing to exercise.
Research shows that using second-person self-talk can help maintain motivation. Encouraging oneself with phrases like you can do this, you got this, or you are going to achieve your fitness goals improves the chances of obtaining the desired outcome. (Sanda Dolcos, Dolores Albarracin. 2014)
Fight Through The Doubt
Start with small steps. Ask if doubt is stopping you from starting. If doubt begins to arise:
Ask For Help
A colleague, friend, or partner can help reinspire motivation.
Tell them about the challenges of sticking with exercise.
Ask them to work out together.
Do What Is Possible
If working out for 30 minutes is too difficult, don’t worry about it.
Go for as long as possible and try for more the next time.
Working out can feel like a job, but it does not have to.
For example, individuals sitting or standing all day can approach the workout as 30 minutes to get out and move around.
Or, after getting the kids settled in, it is time to do something for yourself and exercise the stress away.
Healthy Reminders
Write inspirational fitness mindset notes and put them where they will be seen regularly.
These can be exercise goals; for example, I will exercise for 30 minutes because I want more energy, better sleep, strength, etc.
Train The Brain For Exercise
When the issue is motivation, the mind needs to be convinced to exercise. How to use mind-over-matter skills:
Rewards
When finishing a workout, rewards can help.
Exercise has its own rewards – more energy, improved mood, stress relief, and reduced disease risk.
Maybe a new pair of shoes, earbuds or headphones, workout equipment, or a massage will increase motivation.
Make A Deal
Continue to exercise for whatever amount of time, and if the desire to stop is still present, then stop.
Nine times out of 10, individuals will keep going.
Pretend
Make-believe can encourage the fitness mindset.
Pretending to be in a race, or in a movie, anything that makes the body want to move.
Set Achievable Goals
Making difficult goals can generate the fear of being unable to achieve them.
Aim for small achievable goals that go along with a bigger overall goal.
That way, there are more victories, and the motivation to keep moving is maintained.
Competition
Healthy competition can be a great motivator.
Competing with oneself for faster times, heavier weights, or more frequency can keep the inspiration going.
Social media and apps to compete with family and friends can also help.
Visualization
Athletes use visualization techniques of going through the game, match, and tournament to get themselves prepared and ready to execute what they’ve been practicing.
Individuals can do the same thing by picturing themselves going through their workout from beginning to end.
Exercise provides meditation time to think about problems and challenges.
Use the workout time to work through the problems and refocus strategies to solve them.
Process Goals
Choosing specific goals that are part of the workout process, like working out 3-4 times per week, is recommended compared to using outcome goals, like losing ten pounds.
Outcome goals can be out of the individual’s control; instead, focus on the steps to achieve the goals, which lessens stress and is a more controllable method of working out. (Kylie Wilson Darren Brookfield. 2011)
Changing lifestyle to include exercise is not easy. The most important step is having the right attitude. (Margie E. Lachman et al., 2018) Thinking about exercise as an obligation will discourage motivation. Instead, create a fitness mindset to treat exercise like a break from all the stress and a reward for the mind and body to a healthier life.
Home Exercises for Pain Relief
References
de Vries, J. D., van Hooff, M. L., Geurts, S. A., & Kompier, M. A. (2016). Exercise as an Intervention to Reduce Study-Related Fatigue among University Students: A Two-Arm Parallel Randomized Controlled Trial. PloS one, 11(3), e0152137. doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0152137
Bryan D. Loy, Patrick J. O’Connor & Rodney K. Dishman (2013) The effect of a single bout of exercise on energy and fatigue states: a systematic review and meta-analysis, Fatigue: Biomedicine, Health & Behavior, 1:4, 223-242, DOI: 10.1080/21641846.2013.843266
Dolcos S, Albarracin D. (2014). The inner speech of behavioral regulation: Intentions and task performance strengthen when you talk to yourself as a You. Eur J Social Psychol. 44(6):636-642. doi:10.1002/ejsp.2048.
Lachman, M. E., Lipsitz, L., Lubben, J., Castaneda-Sceppa, C., & Jette, A. M. (2018). When Adults Don’t Exercise: Behavioral Strategies to Increase Physical Activity in Sedentary Middle-Aged and Older Adults. Innovation in aging, 2(1), igy007. doi.org/10.1093/geroni/igy007
Renner, F., Murphy, F. C., Ji, J. L., Manly, T., & Holmes, E. A. (2019). Mental imagery as a “motivational amplifier” to promote activities. Behaviour research and therapy, 114, 51–59. doi.org/10.1016/j.brat.2019.02.002
Kylie Wilson & Darren Brookfield (2009). Effect of Goal Setting on Motivation and Adherence in a Six‐Week Exercise Program, International Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology, 7:1, 89-100, DOI: 10.1080/1612197X.2009.9671894
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