Top 5 Essential Physiotherapy Tips for Optimal Health

As we step into the new year, it is essential to prioritise our health and well-being. At Malvern Physiotherapy Clinic, we believe in empowering you with the knowledge and tools necessary to lead a healthier, more active lifestyle. Here are our top five tips for optimal health 2024:

1. Manage Any Niggles or Injuries Before You Start

Starting the year on a strong note is crucial to maintaining momentum. If you plan to embark on a new fitness routine or activity, ensure you’re in the best physical shape possible. Early injuries can derail your plans and cause your resolutions to falter. Consult with our physiotherapists to assess your condition, make necessary adjustments to your plan, and determine specific exercises that can help you start your new activity safely and effectively.

2. Engage in Regular Exercise

Regular cardiovascular exercise has numerous benefits for your overall health, both physically and mentally. We recommend adults engage in 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75-150 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity per week. Choose an activity that you enjoy and are likely to stick with – be it walking, running, cycling, or participating in a sport. Remember, consistency is key.

3. Incorporate Strength Exercises

Strength training is another essential aspect of a balanced exercise regime. Adults should aim for at least two strength training sessions per week. This becomes increasingly important as we age to maintain function and mobility. Strength training can take many forms, including Pilates or gym workouts. Our expert physiotherapists can help set up a gym program tailored to your needs and abilities, ensuring any niggles or injuries are managed appropriately.

4. Limit Sitting and Sedentary Behaviour

With our increasingly digital lifestyles, sitting times have increased for most individuals. Prolonged sitting can compromise health and diminish the benefits of exercise. Make it a point to avoid sitting for longer than 45-60 minutes at a time. Get up, move around, and stretch for 5-10 minutes every hour to counteract the effects of a sedentary lifestyle.

5. Update Your Exercise Program Regularly

Keeping your exercise program fresh and exciting is essential for maintaining motivation. The new year is an excellent opportunity to update your goals and introduce new exercises into your routine. If you’re feeling stuck or bored with your current regime, our physiotherapists can provide alternative exercises or training methods to achieve the same goals in a different way.

At Malvern Physiotherapy Clinic, we offer a wide range of services, including Myotherapy, Remedial Massage, Pregnancy and Pre & Post-Natal Physiotherapy, Pre-Operative Physiotherapy, Post-Operative Physiotherapy, Musculoskeletal & Sports Physiotherapy, and more. Located at 299 Wattletree Rd, Malvern East VIC 3145, we are easily accessible and ready to assist you on your journey to better health in 2024. Contact us today on 03 9078 8434 or book an appointment here, and let’s make this year your healthiest yet.

This blog was written by Christopher Lawry, Associate Physiotherapist.

Published January 12, 2024