Staying Fit And Safe: Expert Tips For Protecting Your Joints And Muscles

Why Staying Fit Doesn’t Mean Ignoring Your Body’s Needs

Alright, let’s get real for a moment. We all know that starting the new year with fitness goals is practically a tradition at this point. But here’s the thing: while we’re all focused on looking good in the mirror or hitting that number on the scale, we often forget about the most important part of fitness—keeping your joints and muscles safe. It’s like driving a car without checking the oil. Sure, it might work for a while, but eventually, you’re gonna run into trouble.

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That’s why Us Weekly’s very own Christina Garibaldi sat down with RxSaver’s Dr. Holly Phillips to talk about how we can protect what’s inside our bodies while we’re pushing ourselves to get in shape. And trust me, you’re gonna want to listen to this because it could change the way you approach your workouts forever.

Why Staying Active Is About More Than Just Looking Good

Dr. Phillips kicks things off by reminding us that fitness isn’t just about how we look—it’s about how we feel. “When we think about fitness or hitting the gym, so much of the focus is on weight loss or maintaining our weight,” she says. “But here’s the deal: for the health of our bones, muscles, and joints, staying active is absolutely critical.”

Let that sink in for a second. You’re not just working out to look good. You’re working out to keep your body functioning properly for years to come. That’s a pretty powerful motivator, right?

What Happens as We Age—and How to Combat It

Here’s the truth: as we get older, our bodies start to change. It’s a fact of life. And one of the biggest changes we face is the loss of bone density and muscle mass. That’s where Dr. Phillips emphasizes the importance of incorporating more stretching and weight-bearing exercises into your routine.

“Any exercise that puts your body against gravity,” she explains, “like lifting weights, walking, running, climbing stairs, jogging, or even dancing, can help your muscles get stronger and better protect your joints.” Think about it: every step you take is a step toward building a healthier, more resilient body.

Why You Don’t Need to Go Overboard

Now, before you go off and start lifting the heaviest weights in the gym, Dr. Phillips has a word of caution. “You can get just as much benefit from more aerobics and lower weights,” she reminds us. It’s all about balance. You don’t need to go to extremes to see results. In fact, going too hard too fast can do more harm than good.

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So, what does that mean for you? It means you can still enjoy your workouts without feeling like you have to push yourself to the limit every single time. And honestly, isn’t that a relief?

The Role of Diet in Building Stronger Bones

Here’s the kicker: while exercise is crucial, it’s not the only thing you need to focus on. Dr. Phillips also recommends making some changes to your diet to support your fitness goals. “Incorporating more calcium-rich foods, like leafy greens and low-fat dairy products, can help build stronger bones,” she says.

So, next time you’re at the grocery store, consider adding some kale, spinach, or even a nice Greek yogurt to your cart. Your body will thank you later.

Where to Find More Tips

If you’re ready to learn more about staying safe while you stay fit, you’ll want to check out episode 5 of the podcast. Dr. Phillips dives even deeper into the secrets of maintaining a healthier, happier you in 2020. And guess what? It’s not just about fitness. She also explores how to get a better night’s sleep, how to stick to your New Year’s resolutions, and so much more.

You can catch up on all the episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Stitcher. Trust me, it’s worth the listen.