How Listening to Your Body Prevents Injury and Builds Strength

Did you grow up hearing advice like you’ve got to push yourself, keep going through the pain, work harder - as hard as you can - and so on? If so, you’re not alone. That’s perhaps especially true when it comes to exercise and fitness. But all that is only really half the story. Although effort’s definitely important, there’s more to think about. You’ve also got to learn to listen to your body. With that in mind, keep reading to find out more about how listening to your body can prevent injury and build strength. 

A powerful moment in motion — a reminder that listening to your body helps you move with strength, balance, and confidence.

Photo by Pixabay

Listening to Your Body Means Noticing the Signals Before Things Go Wrong

Injury doesn’t normally just come out of nowhere, and most of the time there are going to be some early signs. These include a stiff shoulder or a knee that always hurts no matter what.

Or maybe you end up with backache by the time you’ve finished all your chores. These are exactly the kinds of signals we’re talking about, and you should pay attention to them, not ignore them. Your body is begging for attention.

Of course, you don’t have to stop what you’re doing the minute something feels off. Unless it’s pain, of course, in which case it’s probably a good idea. But remember, listening to your body means understanding what you’re doing and whether it’s hurting you without you realising it. 

Also READ - The Worst Athlete Injuries: When Greatness Ends in an Instant

Rest Is Part Of The Progress

There’s a very strange belief that resting means you’re being lazy or even losing progress on how well you’ve done. But that’s definitely not true. It’s actually the opposite. Muscles repair themselves when you rest. You even get stronger when you give yourself a break.

Plus, you’re going to get your energy back more quickly. So you’ll probably be able to do more after a rest than if you just powered through. By incorporating the practice of listening to your body, you will learn the importance of rest in your fitness journey. 

Small Adjustments Stop Big Problems 

Something that’s worth remembering is that when you listen to your body, you’ll usually come up with some simple fixes. These stop the problem getting worse. For example, getting better shoes for working out, or doing stretches before you get started, and so on.

Making these little corrections can save you a lot of pain and missed exercise in the future.  

If you’re not sure what adjustments to make, it’s probably a good idea to see an expert.

A quick checkup with a sports medicine doctor, for example, can show you exactly what the issue is and what needs to be done. With the right guidance and by truly listening to your body, you can turn it all around and stop bigger problems from following on. 

Also READ - Ultimate Guide to Sports Injuries Recovery

Moving Forward by Listening to Your Body

Your body is always giving you information, and when you actually pay attention to it, you become stronger, healthier, and happier. And you avoid the injuries that tend to appear when you’re rushing, ignoring soreness, and pushing past all those all-important warning signs. 

Ultimately, listening to your body is the best way to get further ahead, so it’s time to get started and make sure you do what it says.