Loudoun County, Va. — When people discuss strengthening the body, it’s common to automatically think of heavy weight lifting as the only way to build muscle. Strengthening is a key component to focus on when trying to improve an athlete’s performance. However, before any kind of heavy lifting occurs, the athlete must understand the basic movements needed to perform their sport. This is known as biomechanics. Mechanics of the sport: Flexibility Technique/Core Work Appropriate Strengthening Program Adequate Rest GAINS Mechanics refers to the working parts of something. Imagine trying to coach a soccer athlete when you’re only familiar with volleyball.…

Loudoun County, Va. —  Whether you are pounding the pavement for a short jog or you’re a routine racer, running is great cardiovascular training. It is a gratifying way to maintain overall fitness. Although the act of running itself may initially seem daunting if you’re not an avid runner, you will reap the physical benefits within a few weeks. The key is to start slowly and add distance incrementally to decrease the risk of injury. Top 10 health benefits of running Improve Longevity Burn Fat Reduce Your Cancer Risk Strengthen Your Core Improve Your Sleep Reduce Your Risk of Osteoporosis…

Loudoun County, Va. —  Overuse injuries can be any chronic condition that stems from repetitive motion or force through a joint that places a significant amount of stress (over time) on the joint or surrounding tissue. These injuries can affect your bone, cartilage, tendons, and muscles. Some injuries produce a constant, dull ache; while others you may feel more of a sharp and pinching pain, depending on the area. Some examples of overuse injuries Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (Shin Splints) Shin splints may lead to some sort of stress reaction/fracture in the tibia if not taken care of. This isn’t…

Loudoun County, Va. — A meniscus is the cartilage that is found in the knee joint that sits between the bones of the leg known as the femur and tibia. Think of two pads that cushion the inner and outer aspects of your knee. It functions to absorb shock, distribute the load of forces in the knee, and to keep the joint lubricated by moving around fluids. A meniscus tear can frequently occur with twisting or turning activities often when the foot is planted. In younger people they can commonly occur with sports or heavy lifting activities however as we…

Loudoun County, Va. —  Strengthening is a key component to focus on when trying to improve an athlete’s performance. However, before any kind of heavy lifting occurs, the athlete must understand the basic movements needed to perform their sport. This is known as biomechanics. Mechanics of the sport: Flexibility Technique/Core Work Appropriate Strengthening Program Adequate Rest GAINS Mechanics refers to the working parts of something. Imagine trying to coach a soccer athlete when you’re only familiar with volleyball. Your knowledge of how the body needs to move to be a successful volleyball player is not going to help you properly…

Loudoun County, Va. — Are you sidelined from participating in your favorite sport because of nagging foot and ankle pain? Have you ever gotten up in the morning and felt pain in your heel when you put your foot down on the floor? You’re probably wondering why your foot and ankle would hurt after you’ve been off your feet and sleeping all night. One of the most common causes of heel pain is plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis arises from the inflammation of the thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot. The plantar fascia inserts right into your…