Getting in Shape for the Season
With warm weather just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about getting back in shape to garden. Throughout the winter months, the muscles used for gardening become weak due to inactivity. When spring arrives and people jump back into gardening, they are often times sore. For the most part, the soreness caused from the initial gardening sessions is preventable. Stretching and gearing up for the gardening season will make days spent in the garden a little more productive and also lessen the recovery time.
Listed below are some stretches and other tips to make your spring gardening a more enjoyable experience:
- Stretches: Shoulder shrugs, shoulder rolls, head roll, sideways neck bends, toe touches, quadriceps stretch, calf stretch, angry cat stretches, wrist extensor/flexor stretches
- Strengthening exercises: Posterior pelvic tilts, bridges, alternate arm and leg extension on all fours, body-weight squats, lunges, single-leg balance, calf raises
- Take plenty of breaks: Rest whenever you feel tired and drink water.
- Use proper body mechanics: Lift with your legs and/or get help with heavy loads. Always push carts and wheelbarrows rather than pulling.
- Wear proper clothing and protective equipment: Wear supportive footwear (no sandals), wide-brimmed hats, gloves, and kneepads.
- Always wear sunscreen and sunglasses.
- Taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your plants.
Click here to find other stretches and demonstrations of stretches.
Click here to find more tips for gardening.
If you have any questions, comments, or concerns please feel free to contact Bird Physical Therapy – (785) 331-0106