Over-exercising can increase the risk of injury. Here are ways on how you can avoid this.

Eat up
Without proper nutrition, you lose concentration and tire easily. Carbohydrates like bread are a good source of fuel for exercise. Remember to eat again within two hours of finishing your workout.

Rest
When we exert our bodies, we actually suffer from microscopic injuries, which explain why we get body aches after a heavy workout. Train different muscle groups on different days, factoring rest in between for healing to take place.

Proper Technique
If you are learning a new sport, picking up the correct technique from qualified coaches will go a long way in avoiding injury.

Pace yourself
Doing too much, too soon, can put you at risk of injuries. Gradually build up speed, distance or weight to build stamina at the correct pace.

Use Proper equipment
Using old or faulty equipment can be dangerous.

Build the foundation
Basic fitness includes cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, core stability and strength. Build your foundation before starting technical or strenuous sports.

Health screening
Although largely the domain of professional sports, medical tests are a good way to rule out life threatening conditions such as cardiac arrest.

Suitable Environment
Don’t exercise during thunderstorms or, if you have asthma, during the haze. Choice of terrain is important. For example, if you are recovering from a sprained ankle, don’t run cross-country in a hilly area.

Warm up
Flexibility is important for the prevention of muscle strains and pulls. Remember to warm up and cool down during every exercise session.

Stay hydrated
Since water is lost in the form of sweat during exercise, it is vital to stay hydrated. A rule of thumb is to drink water for workouts less than an hour long and isotonic drinks (essentially water and sugar) for exercise beyond an hour.