At this time of year, many people have resolved to get fit, and this can mean gyms in Homestead and South Florida are quite full. In addition, many people are resolving to work out at home, with gym equipment, videos, or just by themselves.
For those who want to get fit, a sudden focus on exercise can backfire if it leads to a gym or sports injury in Homestead or another community. Unfortunately, crowded gyms in January, poorly designed exercise equipment, and too-intense workouts can increase the risk of sprains, falls, and other injuries. To reduce your risk of injury as you focus on fitness, follow these tips:
- Get an expert opinion. Before you work out, consult a doctor, especially if you are sedentary. A doctor can evaluate your fitness level and suggest exercise which can be safe for you. If you are working out in a gym, meet with a trainer to develop a fitness plan which is sustainable and helps you avoid injury.
- Learn how to work out safely. Whether you work out alone or in a gym, make sure you do so safely. Read the instructions that come with exercise equipment to ensure you are using pieces correctly or ask for a demonstration. Learn and maintain good form to avoid injuries.
- Ease into it. Instead of trying to work out hard every day, gradually increase intensity, reps, and the length of time you exercise. Starting slow lets your body adjust and can help you avoid injury. By keeping the bar low at the start, you also make it easy to stick to your plan, which can make your fitness goals more attainable.
- Don’t ignore injuries. If you do fall and hit your head during sports or fitness routines, seek medical attention immediately. Traumatic brain injuries cause fatalities in Homestead and Florida each year and even fatal injuries do not always present symptoms right away. Similarly, if you feel unusual pains or experience popping or snapping in your joints or any other worrisome symptoms, get medical help. Getting treatment can prevent an injury from getting worse and can get you started on the road to healing.
- Wear the right gear. If you are working out in a gym or home gym, wear exercise shoes and comfortable clothing which fits properly and allows for a range of movement. If you’re playing a sport, make sure you wear a helmet, knee and elbow pads, or whatever safety equipment your sport requires each time you play.
- Check out gym safety. If you’re joining a gym or a league, visit first to take a look at the safety standards. Is the facility overcrowded, without adequate space in between each machine? Are there enough staff on hand to offer help and to address any issues? Is the equipment well-maintained and with clear instructions on proper use? Are spills and hazards addressed fast? Look for a facility which takes care of its patrons.
If you have suffered an injury in a gym or while playing sports and if your injury was caused by the property owner’s negligence, you may have a premises liability claim. To find out, call Flaxman Law Group at 1-866-352-9626 (1-866-FLAXMAN) for a free, no obligation consultation with a Homestead sports injury attorney.