Chiropractic Tips for 4 Common Winter Activities
By Brandi Goodman
A winter full of fun activities outside can help you make the most of the cold season. Before you start planning out what you're going to do, however, it's important to also consider just how careful you need to be when completing them. Chiropractic tips for four common winter activities can help you stay safe as you enjoy your time.
Skiing
Asheville may not have its own ski resort, but drive just 40 minutes north to Wolf Ski Ridge Resort past Burnsville and you have the option. Skiing requires a lot of balance and core strength. It's easy to wipe out and experience pain if you aren't strong enough to keep yourself upright. Chiropractors suggest a few weeks of core training and back exercises to help prepare yourself for the activity.
Shoveling
This may be more of a chore than a fun winter pastime, but shoveling is something that needs to get done. Even if you just have a couple of inches to shovel away, the activity can quickly wear you out and cause some serious discomfort. You don't want to twist or bend at the waist as you attempt to shovel and remove the snow from your device. Instead, bend at the knees and lift your pile before carefully depositing it out of your way.
Ice Skating
Ice skating is another common winter activity to enjoy. Find an iced body of water or look for a local skating rink and you can glide around with friends. Just as skiing requires core strength and stamina, so does ice skating. You need to exercise and stretch first so that your body is stable and able to handle the maneuvers. If you're unbalanced, it's easy to fall and get cut on the sharp blades your skates use.
Sledding
Sledding is something people of all ages can do. Though it's often considered a fun option for kids, adults can take a sled up a big hill and have fun riding down it, too. It's important to go to a safe area with lots of open space. You wouldn't want to crash into a fence, house, or something else. Find a designated sledding area to enjoy the activity. Be sure you're sitting upright as well and keeping your core engaged for the best balance.
No matter the activity you're trying, it's imperative that you stretch first and be as prepared as possible to handle the fun without overdoing it. If you do experience discomfort, be sure to stop into The Joint Chiropractic for an adjustment.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Asheville, N.C.