Put Some Spring Into Your Step this Season!
How? Here are some ideas to reduce soreness, give you a boost of energy and alleviate tired feet….
Start your day with exercise. Even if you don’t have time for a full workout in the am, getting a few minutes of movement in first thing the morning, whether it is stretching, yoga or even a few minutes of core work will get your blood flowing, mind awake and help reduce stiffness as you start your day.
Speaking of movement, when you have an afternoon slump around 3 pm, a quick burst of movement, even 5 to 10 minutes can give you the energy you need to power through the end of the workday and into the evening. And, since the days are longer and sunnier now, if you can, combine that movement with some vitamin D and fresh air in the outdoors to boost your serotonin even more! Pop out of the office and take a quick walk around the outside of the building, and take the stairs on the way back up!
Remember to hydrate - after that afternoon burst of exercise, and all day long. Dehydration can be a huge contributing factor to fatigue, foggy thinking, sluggish digestion and so much more. So drink up, and remember hydration also means keeping your electrolytes balanced too!
One of the easiest ways to add some spring back into your step is to make sure you have good supportive shoes! Did you know that for those who do cardio regularly (at least 2 - 3 times a week) you should be replacing your running/walking shoes at least every 6 months? All those hours on your feet compress the bottoms of your shoes and eventually there’s not much cushion between you and the ground below. A new pair of shoes that fit well, support your arches, and any pronation or supination tendencies you have, can make it feel like you are walking on clouds instead of grinding your joints! Personally, my favorite brand is Brooks, but everyone’s feet are different. Pop into a running store and get fit by a professional for a brand that works for your feet - it's definitely worth it!