Many people hit the gym or running trail with little thought for safety, only to end up on the injured list and out of commission. While it's great to be motivated for your workouts, it is worthwhile to take time to make sure you follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.
Warm Up
Warming up the body gets it ready for the workout and can help to prevent strain and injury, reports the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service. Warming up for a specific activity with stretches and slow movements that mimic that the activity is the best way to prepare the muscles for certain movements. For example, if you're going to walk, start with slow paces aimed at about 75 percent of the speed you expect to reach for about five to 10 minutes. Other, focused stretches should be held for 15 to 20 seconds to allow muscles to suitably stretch.
Dress Appropriately
Dressing appropriately for the type of workout you plan to do is important for safety. Pay careful attention to the kinds of shoes you wear. Workout shoes should provide enough support at the back of the foot to prevent wear on the Achilles tendon and to allow you to maintain control of your feet. They should fit correctly and provide cushioning in the soles to protect your feet. The soles should have treads or provide enough traction to avoid slipping while working out.
Light cotton-blend clothing is best suited for workouts to allow your skin to breathe. While you don't want tight clothes to interfere with your workouts, you also don't want to wear clothes that are so loose that they get caught in exercise equipment.
Drink Fluids
While taking care of your muscles and your environment, it's important to remember to keep your insides safe during workouts as well. The Mayo Clinic reports that staying hydrated while working out, whether it's in cold or heat, inside or outside, is vital. It recommends drinking water or sports drinks before, during and after working out to protect internal organs and maintain proper electrolyte balances. Dehydration can lead to accidents while working out due to dizziness, weak muscles, headaches, low blood pressure and heart palpitations.
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