Health Tips : Sports Fitness

• While calcium intake is important, exercise is shown to be a more predominant lifestyle determinant of bone strength in young women than calcium.

• Exercise has shown to be an essential treatment in managing joint pain and stiffness.

• When exercising, it is important to keep hydration in mind. Two to three hours prior to your workout, you should drink at least 16 ounces of water. Then, again 20 minutes before heading to the gym, you should consume 8 ounces. It is important to remain hydrated during your workout as well, so make sure to drink plenty of fluids during.

• It has been shown that hydrating beverages containing both carbohydrates and protein are optimal in creating a longer workout. Studies show that the added protein helps to increase endurance during a workout.

To reduce the risk of sports related injuries a person must:

• Start aerobic, strength, and flexibility training
• Invest in good athletic shoes designed for support and for that activity
• Use safety equipment