The Four Most Common Fitness Questions – Answered

Kristin Thompson, MEd, ATC athletic training coordinator with Bon Secours InMotion

Kristin Thompson, MEd, ATC, athletic training coordinator with Bon Secours In Motion, helps athletes and those who want to lose weight to maximize their fitness regimen. Below, Kristin shares some of her most commonly asked questions:

1. Why am I sore after I exercise?
   Most people who exercise are sore two days after they work out. This is a phenomenon known as “Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness” or DOMS. The peak of muscle breakdown occurs 36 to 48 hours before it re-builds. DOMS cannot be prevented, but stretching and hydration help minimize discomfort.
2. What supplements should I take?
   Long workouts deplete your body of more than fluids. Nutrients like potassium may need to be replaced. While supplements may be an obvious solution, I recommend other sources for nutrients because supplements in general are not FDA regulated. Most often, nutrient management is as simple as balancing carbohydrates, proteins and fats.
3. How can I avoid injury?
   Technique is important. Even for simple activities like running, a flaw in the step or gait can result in injury. Athletic trainers can videotape people walking or running and point out these flaws to help correct them. Your body signals when something is wrong, so listen to it. It is important to know the difference between discomfort from your workout and pain. Warm-ups and cool-downs are also important to prevent injury.
4. Do sports drinks and energy drinks help your performance?
   Sports drinks are one way to help refuel the body of depleted nutrients and electrolytes resulting from prolonged workouts. When you take care of your body, you perform better.

   Energy drinks, however, can be dangerous when mixed with physical activity. Energy drinks are full of caffeine, a stimulant that increases your heart rate and causes unnecessary wear on the heart and other organs. Though the adrenaline rush may temporarily improve your performance, it can have detrimental long-term effects.

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