National Gardening Exercise Day
National Gardening Exercise Day happens on June 6th every year. Most of us think gardening happens to be quite easy however we quickly realize the next day from our aches and pains, this is not the case. This is especially true for seniors and those that are sedentary.
Did you know that you are actually doing quite a bit of exercise which include stretching, bending, pulling, squatting and adding some extra steps. Gardening on it's own is therapeutic, builds muscle and burns calories. Not to mention the fresh air and sunshine benefits.
Here are 7 quick tips to keep your body nice and limber for the entire season.
Start slowly. Like any exercise program, a gradual increase in time and intensity always preps your body and decreases potential injuries.
Use the right and left hand equally especially for raking and shoveling. Or even to hold your balance during planting.
Don’t forget to breathe! This seems petty to say however most of us breath pretty shallow so take a deep breathe every once in a while.
Be aware of how your body feels as you work in your garden. If a part of your body starts to ache, take a break, stretch that body part in the opposite direction it was in, or switch to a different gardening activity. For example, if you’ve been leaning forward for more than a few minutes, and your back starts to ache, slowly stand up, and gently lean backwards a few times.
LIFT WITH YOUR LEGS! Yes, I’m yelling!!! Save your back and use those hamstrings and glutes. You’ll thank yourself for it.
Drink plenty of water. Some days can get pretty hot and it’s easy to become dehydrated.
Maintenance, maintenance, maintenance! Enjoy your garden for shorter sessions and visit often.
If you are experiencing pain when you garden, contact our clinic to speak to one of our Physiotherapists about how to relieve your pain!
