Thinking about a nature hike? Prior to heading out, be sure to do warm-up exercises beforehand. Stretching gradually increases heart rate, temperature and circulation to muscles, which decreases the chance of injury. Set a comfortable pace as you go on the trail so no one is left behind. Keeping that in mind, hikes should be designed for the weakest member of the group.

Fore! Has it been a while since you’ve swung the sticks? If so, you should note that the most common golf injuries occur in the back, elbows, wrists and shoulders, especially if you’re not properly warmed up. To ensure you’re in good condition to hit the links, drop by your local Chiropractic Partners office for a check up and more injury-prevention tips.

Stay hydrated! While outside in warm weather, be sure to drink plenty of water. The average person should consume at least eight, eight-ounce servings of water each day. In fact, according to the Nutrition Information Center at Rockefeller University, an athlete can lose six to 10 pounds of water weight during a 10K race in hot weather. Therefore, the more active you are, the more water your body needs to replenish lost fluids, especially in warm weather.

Been a couch potato all winter? Consistent exercise is important for your overall health and wellness. According to the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, physically inactive people are twice as likely to develop coronary heart disease when compared with those who are regularly active. In order to help you get back on track, plan a visit to your local nutritionist or physician for guidance on an active, outdoor lifestyle.

Weight for me! Good nutrition and a balanced diet help to maintain an overall healthy lifestyle. However, it seems that some Americans are taking big bites. Of the U.S. population, 58 million are overweight, 40 million are obese and 2 million are morbidly obese (Wellness International Network Ltd.). Therefore, when choosing meals, it’s important to select an appropriate portion size. Don’t have a measuring cup around? Use the palm of your hand or a clenched fist to help gauge the portion sizes of your food. A healthy diet gives you more energy so you’re able to get outside and enjoy being active.

By following these guidelines to prepare you for an active lifestyle, rest assured that you can enjoy a safe and healthy spring, no matter where the warm weather takes you.