Your Phone Could Pose a Risk at the Gym
When it comes to injuries from physical activities like pickleball or skiing, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Kevin Stone often finds a common factor: lack of attention.
Dr. Stone emphasizes that mental errors are the leading cause of sports injuries. Being distracted or not fully engaged in the activity can lead to accidents and harm.
To prevent such incidents, Dr. Stone advises reducing distractions, such as avoiding multitasking with your phone or bringing pets to sports facilities. Staying focused on your body movements can significantly reduce the risk of injuries during exercise.
In addition to preventing injuries, staying attentive during workouts can also enhance the effectiveness of your exercise routine. Dr. Stone suggests that paying attention to your heart rate, sweat level, and endurance, and pushing yourself slightly further each time, is crucial for improving fitness outcomes.
While some research indicates that watching TV while exercising can make workouts more enjoyable for sedentary individuals, being distracted may hinder the effectiveness of the workout session. Dr. Stone believes that truly enjoying physical activity is essential for long-term adherence to an exercise regimen.
In his book, “Play Forever: How to Recover From Injury and Thrive,” Dr. Stone advocates approaching exercise as a form of play rather than a mere workout. By embracing movement as a joyful experience, individuals are more likely to maintain an active lifestyle, leading to improved health and overall happiness.
According to Dr. Stone, immersing yourself in the moment and fully enjoying activities like running, lifting weights, and playing sports can foster a lifelong commitment to fitness. Distractions like smartphones or other media can take away from the pleasure and satisfaction derived from physical activity, potentially undermining long-term exercise engagement and well-being.
