Health & FitnessPure Health Chiropractic

Inspired?

With all the craziness and negativity going on in the world recently, it’s always good to have something positive to focus on which can bring us all together to enjoy and celebrate. The London Olympics in 2012 was a great example of that, and it seems that this year’s event was just as inspiring, particularly as Team GB again did so well. Congratulations to all of the athletes who competed!

Competitors at the very top level usually have a fantastic support team (including chiropractors!) to help with training, nutrition, health and recovery. Of course, the average person doesn’t have that to hand, but if you’ve been inspired by the Olympics to get into exercise, don’t let that put you off! There are plenty of good therapists and trainers around who can help, particularly if you suffer with an injury or movement problems.

Unfortunately most people lose their good intentions once they realise just how boring exercising for the sake of exercising actually is. In my opinion, the best way to get fit (and stay fit) is to find something that you really enjoy doing, and can become passionate about. That way, it doesn’t feel so much like hard work, and your gym and strength training can become more focused towards it.

For those who don’t know me, I am a very keen mountain biker and regularly ride down steep, rocky, rooty trails for fun. After having lumbar spinal surgery in my twenties and chronic disc degeneration thereafter, I was once told to stop riding as it wouldn’t help my spine. I’ve recently returned from a trip to the Alps riding some of the best singletrack trails I’ve ever ridden, had no back trouble, and I loved every minute (thanks bikealp.com!). Since becoming a chiropractor in 2009, I have realised that with the right treatment, training and advice, spinal problems needn’t stop you doing the things you love.

In all sports, fitness and health in general, having a spine that moves well but is also strong and stable is vital to both good performance and staying injury free. Ask anyone who’s had a severe back injury, and they will know: it makes you as weak as a kitten and destroys your confidence in movement. It’s the biggest reason why everyone (including runners, footballers, rugby players, cyclists, weightlifters or even just those looking to stay healthy) should be maintaining good spinal function, good movement patterns, and good core stability. These three factors are hugely important in all movement, particularly if you want to enjoy your chosen activity as much as possible.

If you need help with your pain, remember: Good spinal function is essential for movement; Good movement is essential for health; Chiropractic helps to maintain good spinal function.

See what chiropractic can do for you. I am available in Newport on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, and now also in Stafford on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. I look forward to seeing you.

Chris Mallett
Pure Health Chiropractic

September 2016