9 Benefits of Running
During the pandemic lockdown, droves of gym goers took up running as an alternative way to stay fit. Others still just could not get into it despite the accessibility and numerous benefits of running. There are many myths and excuses that prevent people from taking up running, like: it will ruin my knees; I’m too old to start running; I’m afraid to run by myself; or I can’t run for more than short distance without stopping. Running is a great aerobic workout with numerous benefits for your entire body. The truth is a running program can be designed for most [...]
Stretches and Strength Exercises for Paddling: Canoeing, Kayaking, Paddle Boarding
Paddling at the cottage or on the city’s local waterways can feel more like a fun pastime than the rigorous sport we see at the Olympics. But don’t let that fool you into thinking your body doesn’t require proper training to avoid injury and improve your overall enjoyment of the activity. Summer is a great time to enjoy the many waterways of Ontario. Whether you are staying in the city or heading to the cottage, there are things you can do as a recreational paddler to prepare your body for the activities you plan to partake in. Getting out [...]
Chronic Stroke: Rehabilitation Beyond the First 6 Months
Stroke recovery can be a long and challenging process. While the greatest changes often occur within the first six months after a stroke, significant changes can continue many years after a stroke or what is called chronic stroke. Neuroplasticity, or the ability of the brain to rewire or reorganize itself can allow healthy areas of the brain to compensate for damaged tissues. Physiotherapy plays a key role in fostering this recovery. Research suggests that continued improvement occurs in the chronic phase of stroke with regular practice of goal directed skills.[i] Through intense, patient oriented and active therapy, clients can [...]
Summer Safety Tips for Kids
Summer is an excellent time to get the kids outdoors to enjoy fun activities that help them connect with nature while meeting their daily physical activity goals. School-age kids and teens should get 60 minutes or more of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily. This should include muscle strengthening and bone-strengthening activities at least three days a week. With schools out and warmer weather, it’s a great time to explore community pools, conservation areas, and neighbourhood playgrounds. Kids can improve their strength climbing a tree or crossing the monkey bars. They can improve their endurance playing a game of tag, [...]
Running for Seniors: The Effects of Aging and Training for Injury Prevention
As people continue to live longer, finding ways to stay active becomes increasingly important. Running is a great way to stay healthy at any age. Although certain physiological changes occur as we get older, running has numerous benefits in the aging population. This article will explore how the body changes with aging, the benefits of running for seniors, potential injuries in the aging runner, and how to best train to avoid injury and optimize running performance. Table of Contents The Normal Effects of Aging Benefits of Running for Seniors Potential Running Injuries for Seniors Training to Avoid Running Injuries [...]
Pickering Physiotherapy Clinic Manager | Alanna Holz Spotlight
Get to know our Pickering physiotherapy clinic manager and registered physiotherapist Alanna Holz a little better. This is the third installment of a video and blog series to spotlight our clinicians in 1-on-1 interviews that aim to help you get to know them a bit more on a personal level. In these candid discussions, we talk childhood injuries, childhood dreams, education, career paths, parenthood, and best advice for new physios and the general public. I’m so excited for you to listen to check out this episode, where I chatted with Alanna. Alanna is passionate about helping her clients achieve their [...]