Written by Brooke Burgoyne, Senior Physiotherapist @ In Stride Health Clinic, Ascot Vale
With the summer sun calling us outdoors, the temptation to fully immerse ourselves in fitness activities is strong. However, to maintain a healthy and injury-free lifestyle during the warmer months, it's crucial to carefully consider load management. This vital concept involves balancing the intensity, frequency, and duration of your physical activities to prevent overexertion and reduce the risk of injuries.
Factors such as rising temperatures and an increased risk of dehydration make load management especially important during summer workouts. Stay hydrated and choose cooler times of the day to exercise, minimising the impact of heat. Whether you're a seasoned fitness enthusiast or a beginner, gradual progression is key. Start with moderate workouts, gradually increasing intensity to allow your body time to adapt.
Incorporating rest days into your weekly schedule is vital for proper recovery and injury prevention. Diversify your workouts with cross-training to engage different muscle groups, promoting overall strength and resilience. Remember to include proper warm-ups and cool-downs to prepare your body for exercise and reduce muscle stiffness afterward.
Benefits of load management during summer exercise include injury prevention, sustainable progress, and enhanced performance. By avoiding overexertion, you not only reduce the risk of injuries such as strains and stress fractures but also ensure consistent, long-term progress.
As a final piece of advice, if you ever experience persistent pain or have specific queries or concerns about your exercise routine, don't hesitate to consult with a physiotherapist. At In Stride Health Clinic, our physiotherapists have an onsite rehab gym, clinical pilates studio and access to a local hydrotherapy pool to support setting up your exercise and rehabilitation programs. These professionals can offer personalised guidance, assess your unique needs, and provide tailored exercises to address any underlying issues. Prioritise your health this summer for a season filled with well-being, happiness, and the perfect balance of exercise!
Brooke completed her Bachelor of Physiotherapy in 2011 at La Trobe University. Since then she has worked in private practice both in Melbourne and Ballarat treating numerous musculoskeletal injuries across a diverse range of clients including local sports teams.
Brooke has also completed extra training in Pilates and Hydrotherapy. She also completed her training as a GLA:D Physiotherapist in 2018. Brooke is passionate about using a combination of hands-on techniques, exercise and education to achieve client outcomes.
Brooke has a special interest in neck/back pain as well as sports injuries, women's health, and injury prevention. Her interest in women’s health has increased since becoming a mother in 2019.
