Most of us will be doing a fair amount of traveling this summer, whether by plane, train, or automobile. Gas prices have gone up, but we should not allow our blood pressure to rise as well during this heavy summer travel season! Staying active during travel is just as important as when you are performing your normal exercise routine in the comfort of your hometown, and possibly even more so when you are stuck in the cramped seat of an airliner or lack the proper knee-room in your luggage-packed car!
Ever heard of deep vein thrombosis? The condition can manifest from a pooling of the blood in your lower extremities, caused by a lack of movement for significant periods of time. We all have those partners who refuse to stop for us to use the rest area while on a road trip…well, there is another reason to take your foot off the gas and allow for some time out of the car. A bladder mishap is one problem, but a blood clot in your calf or thigh that can travel to your lungs is a whole other issue that could result in death.
The American Heart Association estimates that 1 out of every 1000 Americans will experience DVT. Periods of immobility increase the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis, as well as obesity, clotting disorders, pregnancy, and vein damage caused by lower extremity surgery. Sufferers will typically experience a swollen or painful leg, usually in the calf, but symptoms can be silent also. You can prevent this condition by taking precautionary measures prior to your trip and increasing your movement during your travels. Keep the following tips in mind as you set off on your grand summer escape:
TRAINING TRIVIA
Drawings of swimmers doing the breaststroke- or perhaps the dog paddle- dating from the Stone Age have been found in Egyptian caves. Records suggest the first swimming competitions were held in 36 B.C.E., organized by a Japanese emperor.
Myth: The longer you hold a stretch, the more flexible you’ll become.
Reality: Stretching for 30 seconds seems to improve flexibility just as well as stretching for 60 seconds, although 30 seconds does seem to be more effective than 15.
Vegetarians have many nutritious high-protein options, including beans (15g/cup), tofu (10g/cup), hummus (6g/ ½ cup). Veggie burgers and meatless breakfast products made of soy protein generally have 7-14g of protein each.
The first archaeological evidence of yoga’s existence is found in stone artifacts depicting figures performing yoga postures. These artifacts, excavated from a valley in India, appear to date from 3000 B.C.E.
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