'Prehab - Rehab' - Preparations

With any physical activity, it’s important to properly prepare yourself to help you go the distance. PT, Toby Garbett and sports psychologist, Dr Victor Thompson* share their tips to get you prepared, physically and mentally, for any event this summer.

Prehab

Warm-ups work –

Cold muscles lead to more chance of injury so it’s crucial to take time to do a proper warm up. Focus on muscles you will be using doing a range of dynamic, stretches including; leg swings, deep lunges and knee lifts, and don’t forget about your arms. Toby Garbett, PT.

Carbs and fluids –

You need carbohydrates for exercise. I have porridge with milk and carb-rich snacks like bananas. It’s also crucial to stay hydrated so sip little and often. Try a sweet squash and add a pinch of salt to make your own electrolyte drink on a hot day. Toby Garbett, PT.

Work out why you’re training –

Is it to beat a goal time, to raise money for a deserving cause, to prove something to yourself or something else? When you work out your mantra, make a note of it and remind yourself of this in order to stay focused. Dr Victor Thompson*, Sports psychologist.

Extract the evidence that you are ready –

Perfect preparation doesn’t happen. Instead of picking holes in your prep, write down the reasons you are ready – the training you have completed, the distances, the speed or pace. Having this bank will allow you to turn any negative thoughts into positives when you may need a pick me up. Dr Victor Thompson*, Sports psychologist.

 

* The healthcare professionals involved do not endorse any medicinal product or brand.

 

Find out more about the importance of mentally warming up before exercise.