From shooting hoops to commuting to work, your muscles are just as essential to daily life as any other component of your body. But just like the gears and cogs in a clock, you have to make sure that these parts are working optimally.
Not doing enough to meet certain physical needs can cause your muscles to atrophy. In other words, you become weaker, lose a great deal of body mass, and, in more severe cases, experience pain and numbness.
Indeed, there is nothing better than a body that is able to endure any task no matter how demanding. So, here’s how you can keep your muscles in good shape and lead a more active lifestyle.
1. Adopt a magnesium-rich diet
Any fitness expert will tell you the importance of consuming protein-rich food such as lean meat and eggs. But it is important to know that there are other minerals that promote muscle function, one of these being magnesium. Found mostly in whole grains and legumes, magnesium helps muscles relax and prevents the build-up of tension after a grueling exercise routine. If you are experiencing cramps and spasms all the time, chances are you lack enough magnesium to keep your muscles under control.
2. Don’t forget to warm up
Regardless of your workout regimen, priming your muscles is essential. And it’s not just because it helps prevent injury. It also improves blood flow and releases muscle tension, allowing you to move freely. That said, you can do stretching exercises or jog a few laps before you get to work.
3. Stay active in the sport you love
The trick to preventing muscle atrophy is physical activity. The best way to attain this is by playing a high contact sport such as football or basketball. The training you get promotes endurance and ensures muscle growth that minimizes wastage. If you play basketball, for instance, improving your performance through a vertical jump program can help strengthen muscle fibers that help you jump higher and run faster.
4. Stay hydrated
Water is life, and your muscles agree to that as well! On top of improving blood flow, staying hydrated during your intense workout sessions supply your body with electrolytes that allow for muscle growth and, like magnesium, prevent muscle cramping. In fact, water works better at hydrating your body than most caffeine-infused energy drinks that lead to fluid loss. That said, make it a habit to drink water whenever you are burned out.
5. Leave the car in the garage
Why not shake up the daily commute by walking or riding a bike to work? This gives you extra motivation to wake up early and give your muscles enough exercise to energize you for the rest of the day. Not only does this help you save gas or fare money, but it also promotes better muscle health.
As you can see, there are other ways you can keep your muscles in condition apart from lifting weights or swallowing raw eggs. For sure, your body needs more than strength training and protein to battle against atrophy, so give these tips a try.