Summer Fun Physical Therapy
Here at Orthocare Physical Therapy Center, we encourage you to move and get outside! Summer Exercise and Physical Therapy should be a part of your healthy summer routine – like the pool and ice-cream! The weather is great in Fairfax and Virginia. See some of our Free Physical Therapy Tips for Summer Fun and Exercise!
Switch it Up
Summer is a good time to try out outside activities like running, swimming, or cycling. If you do want to stick to your routine, change the workout intensity or time. So – keep summer exercise plans on!
Here comes the Sun
Protect yourself against the sun. Use sunscreen with high SPF numbers before and during exercise. Avoid exercising during hottest parts of the day. If possible, avoid outdoor time between 11 am – 3 pm.
Hydrate
Make sure you get enough fluids before, during, and after a workout. Try to drink 8 fl oz. (~ 250 ml) of fluid every 15-30 minutes of outside time. If you are outside for less than an hour, water is fine. When you are outside for more than 1-2 hours, use a drink with some electrolytes and sugars to replenish yourself. However, if you really really do want a sports drink, mix half water and half sports drink to cut down on the sugar while still replenishing electrolytes.
Eat
Avoid exercise on a totally empty stomach. Eat some complex (not-sweet tasting) and simple (sweet tasting) carbohydrates before exerting yourself too much.
Warning Signs when Exercising
Dizzy
If you are cramping or feeling dizzy, lightheaded and have a weak pulse, stop exercise, get away from heat and cool down.
Cramps
Cramps may indicate your body telling you to take a break.
Sweat
If you are still sweating, you are good. When you stop sweating then you know it’s time to replenish fluids.
Urine Test
Use the “urine test” to make sure you are hydrated.
A light lemonade color = good
Dark apple juice color = dehydrated
Feeling Hot?
Body temperature 104 or above and confusion can indicate heat stroke. Seek immediate medical attention!
See other tips here.
So – from all of us here at Orthocare Physical Therapy Center, get out there, enjoy the weather and be safe!
And as always, contact us today at info@orthocareptc.com or 703-310-7610 to see how we can help you live better, move better!
We are conveniently located on US 50 at 13135 Lee Jackson Memorial Hwy #320, Fairfax,
Virginia, 22033 in the Greenbriar Corporate Center.
