To celebrate the launch of our new first aid training course Sports First Aid we decided to look at some of the myths surrounding exercise and safety…

Myth No. 1 – No Pain, No Gain

Don’t push yourself too far – pain is an indicator of a possible injury or strain that requires medical assistance. That is your body telling you to stop! It is important to listen to your body and rest between sport or gym sessions.

Myth No. 2 – No Stretching Needed

A common attitude is to skip stretching and get started on a workout or sport. Simple stretching relaxes body muscles and can aid its development and advancement. Most injuries are caused by lack of stretching before exercise.

Myth No. 3 – Get Fit Quick

You can’t cut corners in exercise! Most sportsmen and women start slowly and build up strength, performance and challenge. If rush exercises you may cause harm to yourself and possibly require medical assistance and could hinder your future exercise plans or cause long term damage. Remember slowly does it!

Myth No. 4 – Restricting Fluid Intakes

Some people restrict fluid intake whilst exercising because they think it helps to reduce weight easier and quicker! That’s a myth – your body needs 2 to 3 litres of fluid per day to perform effectively. We sweat 500mls naturally through normal daily activities, so when exercising your body you need more fluids, in order to replace sweated salts and water lost. Latest studies show tap water with a teaspoon of sugar and salt effective then any brand of energy/sports drink available.

Myth No. 5 – Exercise is Dangerous

Yes whilst exercise can be dangerous if not performed correctly or pushing your body too far, exercise is good for your body and general wellbeing. You must seek medical advice prior to starting any new gym or sport, especially if you haven’t regular exercised in the past. A GP can help as you may have an undiagnosed medical condition that could be fatal or cause you long term medical issues if the wrong exercise is performed.

Keep safe, prepare properly, hydrate and if something does happen then remember RICE – Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation. (Suitable for strains – more serious conditions please consult your doctor or phone for emergency services)

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Our Sports First Aid Course is aimed at anyone who requires a course in first aid and who work or perform in the sports, personal training, coaching or instructing sectors across Bournemouth, Poole and the wider Dorset area. It not only covers basic first aid but also all the specific problems that arise in sports. Primary and secondary subjects are covered, including soft tissue injuries, head injuries, types of cuts, and many illnesses that could arise.

The certificate is valid for 3 years and a recommended annual refresher can be booked later. All our first aid courses fully meet the UK and European Resuscitation Council Guidelines 2015 as per the HSE requirements.

For more information please contact Vince Jones here or email: info@firstaidtrainingthatcares.co.uk