Following these guidelines can help you prevent injuries: Avoid doing too much, too soon. Never increase the length of your workouts by more than 10 percent from one week to the next, and never increase both the length and intensity of your workout at the same time. Never skip your warm-up or cool-down. Tight or stiff muscles around a joint will make the area more prone to injury. This is especially important in sports that require quick movements, such as basketball and tennis.
Maintain strength in the muscles surrounding the joint area. To strengthen the knees, do calf raises, lunges, squats, and leg lifts. For the shoulders, do simple moves such as push-ups, lateral lifts with light weights, and bench dips.
Train smart by cross-training. Repetitive motion injuries caused by doing just one sport or workout are some of the most common. You can prevent them by doing different sports or activities that work different muscles. For example, if you mostly ride a bike, take a core strengthening class once a week.
Always use proper technique and body mechanics when playing sports involving repetitive motion, such as tennis and golf. Taking lessons from a certified coach or trainer every once in a while can help you learn and stick with proper form, which can reduce your injury risk substantially.
Keep in shape. A high cardiovascular fitness level is crucial to avoid joint injuries. Otherwise, as you tire your form can fail and your joints carry unbalanced weight. Be sure to wear proper shoes that provide adequate support during exercise.
Proper care of your joints can preserve function in the long term and encourage physical activity.

Presented as a service to the community by: Union County Chiropractic Clinic, 110 Skyline Drive, Maynardville, TN (865) 992-7000 www.unioncountychiropractic.com.