10 tips to avoid injuries when you exercise

• sprains—injuries to ligaments, the tissues that connect bones to one another
• muscle strains—injuries to muscles or tendons, the tissues that connect muscles to bones
• tendinitis—inflammation of a tendon, often due to overuse
• ACL and meniscus tears of the knee—a rip in one of the ligaments that helps stabilize the knee or cartilage that cushions the knee joint
• rotator cuff tears—rips in the group of muscles and their tendons that hold the arm in the shoulder socket.

To avoid getting laid up for days—or even weeks—with an injury, follow these 10 precautions when you work out:

1. Talk to your doctor  Don’t start any exercise program without first checking with your primary care provider. Your doctor can determine whether you’re healthy enough to exercise, and what, if any, modifications you’ll need to make to your program. “Exercise programs should be customized to the individual whenever possible to account for any limitations and ongoing medical conditions,” Dr. Berkson advises.
2. Choose your workout carefully  High-impact exercise programs aren’t ideal for women with conditions like arthritis or osteoporosis. Non-impact exercises, including swimming or using an elliptical exercise machine, will give you aerobic conditioning without stressing your joints.
3. Learn the proper technique  Don’t start any new exercise without first learning the correct form. On the right is an example of proper squat technique. To learn the right form, work with a trainer at home or in the gym, or consult a physical therapist to help you tailor a workout to your health conditions and physical capabilities.
4. Get the right gear  Buy a pair of sturdy, comfortable sneakers that provide good arch support and have a cushioned heel to absorb shock. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that gives you room to move and breathe.
5. Start gradually  Don’t jump into a new exercise program. “The greatest risk of injury comes with changing an exercise program or adding a new exercise,” Dr. Berkson says. Start slowly. If you’re cycling, for example, set the bike’s controls on the lowest speed and tension, and pedal for just a few minutes your first few times. Gradually increase the speed and intensity only when you feel ready.
6. Warm up  Cold muscles are more injury-prone. “A proper warm-up can improve blood flow to the working muscle and reduce stiffness, potentially lowering the risk of injury,” says Dr. Berkson. Your warm-up should be active, meaning that you walk or do dynamic stretches, such as arm or leg lifts, for five to 10 minutes. Avoid passive stretches in which you assume a position and hold it, because they can lead to muscle tears.
7. Stay hydrated  When you work out, you sweat, and that means you lose some of the essential fluids your body needs to take you through your exercise program. Try to drink a glass of water before you exercise, and then take a few sips of water every 15 minutes throughout your routine.
8. Cool down  Finish your workout with a slow walk or gentle stretch for five or 10 minutes to cool down and maintain flexibility.
9. Vary your workouts  Even if you love yoga, alternate it with other programs, such as dancing, tennis, or water aerobics. The variety will work different muscle groups, prevent boredom, and give your body a chance to recover between sessions.
10. Know when to stop  You never want to work out to the point of pain. If an activity hurts, stop doing it right away. “Playing through pain can often prolong your healing time and take you away from the game or exercise you enjoy,” Dr. Berkson says. “Remember to seek the advice of a medical professional whenever pain seems abnormal or is not improving.” Get help immediately if you suddenly feel dizziness, shortness of breath, or chest pain.

How to treat exercise injuries

• Ice it. Right after the injury, apply an ice pack for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, about once an hour. Cover the ice with a towel to protect your skin from the cold. Reapply the ice about four times a day. After 48 hours, you can put heat on the injury if the warmth feels good.
• Wrap it. Wrap the injured area in an elastic bandage. The bandage should be snug, but not too tight.
• Rest it. Avoid using the injured area until it heals.
• Relieve it. Take an over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), such as ibuprofen, to bring down swelling and reduce pain. If your doctor says you should not take NSAIDs, acetaminophen can help relieve aches and pains.