Prehab and The Importance of Preparing For Exercise

In today’s fast-paced world, finding time for exercise can be challenging. In fact, studies have shown that only 24.2% of Americans meet both aerobic and muscle-strengthening activity levels. However, diving back into physical activity without proper preparation can lead to injuries and setbacks. Prehab is an emerging approach to preparing the body for activity while reducing the risk of injury and improving joint motion and performance.

Despite the desire to be active, many people struggle to meet the recommended levels of aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities. Life’s demands often derail fitness plans, leaving us unprepared for sudden spikes in physical activity. This lack of preparation significantly increases the risk of injury when attempting to restart exercise routines or engage in physical hobbies.

Enter Prehabilitation - a proactive approach to fitness and wellness. Prehab consists of exercises designed to prepare the body for more challenging exercises or activities. It helps identify and address stability/mobility issues, muscle imbalances, and improves flexibility and joint motion. By preparing the muscles, supportive tissues, and joints for load in a safe manner, you can be sure your body is ready to handle the strain and demands you require, while reducing future injury.

Prehab exercises focus on enhancing movement quality and biomechanics by targeting specific muscle groups to improve joint motion and overall function. Unlike quick-fix exercise plans touted by fitness influencers, Prehab recognizes that each individual’s biomechanics are unique. It emphasizes a personalized approach and preparation tailored to an individual's capabilities. Exercise is and will never be one size fits all.

In the age of information overload, it’s tempting to jump into trendy workout routines promoted by social media fitness influencers. However, these individuals often prioritize content over individual well-being. Their recommendations may not consider your body’s abilities or past medical or injury history, potentially leading to injury. They do not have your best interest in mind, and to coin a phrase, "free help is often useless help".

Taking a proactive approach to prehab not only readies the body for exercise but also serves as a protective barrier against injuries. By investing in prehabilitation, you can safely return to physical activity without the fear of setbacks. Learn how to adapt your activities to suit your movement, increase performance, and reclaim control in a sustainable, injury-free manner.

By prioritizing preparation, movement quality, and injury prevention, you can achieve better results and maintain long-term physical well-being and health. So before diving into a new exercise routine, remember the importance of prehab - your body will thank you.