When the weather warms up, we look forward to going outside but just be aware of unforeseen injuries. The warm and sunny weather that comes with Spring is a relief after months of cold and snow. And whilst using the warm weather as motivation to move and get healthy is great, doing too much too soon can lead to injuries.

Beware of common overuse injuries

If you have been less active throughout the winter, your body needs a little time to readjust itself to intense activity. It’s important to start slowly when you’re getting back into it. Most injuries come from trying to do too much too soon.

Make sure you warm up

You should take it easy at the beginning and warm up before your workout. Don’t go from zero or light levels of exercise to a high level of intense workout without first allowing your body to warm up.

How to treat an injury at home

“If you feel any pain more than mild soreness, that’s a sign you have an injury that you shouldn’t ignore,” says David. The good news? Most of these injuries aren’t serious and don’t cause permanent damage.

If you think you have an injury, follow the RICE method:

• R – Rest the injury for 48 hours
• I – Apply ice for 20 minutes at a time, 4 to 8 times a day
• C – Compress the injury to reduce swelling
• E – Elevate the injured limb about 8 inches above your heart.

Best wishes, David