Knee pain can sideline you from your workout routine. And like most things that are taken for granted, you don't realize how much you use your knees until it's too painful to use them. Working out can help with a variety ailments, but the best way to deal with injury is to prevent it before it happens.
More: The Best and Worst Exercises for Bad Knees
Here are four ways to prevent a knee injury.
Increase Gradually
It's exciting to do a fitness routine that you actually love. You might be so tempted to go full steam ahead that you do too much too soon.
More: 3 Exercises to Cure Your Knee Pain
Muscle Imbalance
Muscle imbalance is an issue with many people who work out. Over developing certain muscle while neglecting other can lead to problems. When working on legs, if you focus solely on the quads but never target your hamstrings, you might have some knee issues. Be sure to develop all the muscles (quads, calves, hamstrings) connected to your knees to keep them strong, balanced and to prevent injury.
More: Why Your Hip Could Solve Your Knee Pain
Flexibility
Flexibility is a key way to ensure that you won't strain your knees. If you practice high-impact, fast-paced exercise routines that require a great deal of sharp movements and turns, then take the time to develop a healthy amount of flexibility. Finish your workouts with a cool down. Stretch the muscles you used to increase flexibility and to prevent injuries.
More: 4 Tips to Protect Your Knees
Interval Training
Interval training is a great way to prevent knee injuries. As you take on various types of exercise (strength, endurance, cardio, etc) you have the chance to develop many different muscle groups to keep your body well balanced overall.
With a few tips and tricks, you can help keep your knees healthy and injury-free.
More: 3 Workouts That are Easy on the Knees
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