We all need exercise and there are resources everywhere to be able to do it, but do we know how to do it safely? If you’re already in shape and you like to push yourself to new levels, you could be at risk of hurting yourself by over doing it.

If you’re out of shape, getting started in a new routine could work muscles that have been worked in a long time, causing you to be at risk of pulling something over moving wrong and causing anything from an injured knee to a sprained ankle. While your desire to get exercising is a wonderful thing, use these tips and tricks below to make sure you’re being safe about it.

Slow and steady wins the race

Whether you’re progressing yourself to a harder level or you’re just starting out, the key is to start things slowly. Don’t push yourself on too much weight or try to move faster than you’re comfortably at right now. Slow and steady wins the race because it allows your body to get used to this movement you’re doing and once it has learned it, you can start to slowly push yourself into more reps, a faster time, or a higher weight class.

This also applies to your mental attitude, with the understanding that your fitness level isn’t going to progress to where you want overnight. Give it time and enjoy the results as they come.

Make sure you’ve dressed for the occasion

One of the most important things when it comes to your workout is to make sure you are dressing for the occasion. Get the right gear for what you are doing, whether it’s dressing for cold temperatures outside, wearing flexible clothing for the moves you’re making, or protecting the right areas for a dance class or boxing class. Depending on your activity, wear the gear that protects you and allows you to do your best work.

Get the technique down

When you are the gym, make sure to get your techniques down before pushing yourself on a routine. Whether you need to work with a trainer or slow down to get the proper form, it’s important that you are getting the basics under control before doing them repetitively. If you learn slowly and completely, you can build up your endurance properly from there.

Hydrate, take breaks, and get adjustments

Don’t forget to consider how your body is affected by all of this change. You need to start with remembering to hydrate during your workouts and afterwards. Allow your body to warn you when you are dehydrated or ready for a break. You will sometimes need a break whether that’s during the workout or on a day when you are simply too tired, too sore, or under the weather. Listen to your body during these moments.

In addition, be sure to visit your Chiropractor for regular adjustments. Your body may feel out of whack with all of the change or you may struggle to get your body to its peak physical performance when things are slightly off. Getting adjusted will keep your spine and the rest of you in the proper position.

Getting into exercise is always a good idea, but make sure you are being safe about it using these tips.