Biomechanical podiatrist Michael Thompson is back with his thoughts on a sensible return to the sports and leisure activities that we missed during the lockdown.
What a year it has been! A year in which we have all experienced new challenges and losses. A year we hope not to experience again. With our roadmap out of lockdown in place we will soon be allowed back into the gym and we can all look forward to getting back to the sports and activities we love.
Some of us have maintained a good level of fitness over the last year but some may have suffered ill health, been too busy juggling home life and work life or may have taken the opportunity to focus on other things. We must be mindful about our return to sport and activities. In my role, the most common injuries occur when we increase the load and frequency of an activity too quickly.
What does this mean? Create a sensible return to exercise by not doing too much, too quickly. You could start by increasing the distance of your walk or simply increasing the number of times you go for a walk each week. Don’t be fooled into thinking that you can pick up where you left off and do the same level of exercise as you did before.
I know that after time away, you will be raring to go, and it’ll be great to be back doing exercise or sport that you love. But remember, nobody wants an injury to put them on the sidelines again – so take it slow and steady!
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About Michael:
Michael graduated in 2001 with an honours degree in Podiatry from Glasgow Caledonian University. Starting his career in York he developed a great interest in the biomechanical aspect of Podiatry. Moving to Australia for 18 months allowed further education and development of his biomechanical skills. For the last 13 years he has worked as the lead biomechanical Podiatrist in North Somerset with the Musculoskeletal Service.
Please do get in touch with Michael via allwalksuk@gmail.com or email him at Bristol Physio.
