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IOA Corporate 5k:  Race Prep and Healthy Habits 

One of the main similarities between your corporate life and running is that it’s all about finding the right balance.  Whether you just signed up for your first race or you are a seasoned runner with multiple races under your belt, it’s important to find balance in your routine.

Florida Hospital encourages everyone to follow these simple steps towards a healthy work and running lifestyle.  

•Set Goals

“Training isn’t just about running a distance; it’s about preparing your body physically and mentally to achieve a goal,” says Laura Podschun, DPT at Florida Hospital. Setting goals is equally important in your corporate and personal lives in order to push yourself to grow mentally and emotionally. For some, they want to set a personal record, for others, they might simply want to just finish the race. Defining these goals will get you off on the right foot.  It’s important that your goals are healthy and realistic in order to create a personally rewarding experience.  

•Rest

Because our society revolves around its own concepts of "success", the days are filled with many important and seemingly urgent responsibilities, so rest is easily dropped to the bottom of the list. According to the National Sleep Foundation, sleep deprivation effects about 47 million adults in the United States. In adults, sleep of 6-8 hours is considered fully restorative. With the right kind of rest, your mind, body, and soul all function more efficiently and effectively.

•Proper Nutrition

Nutrition is vital to maintain our body’s energy and level of function. Fuel your system by eating proper meals and being more aware of what you’re putting in your body. During the busy work day go for a quick snack of fruit or nuts for energy instead of sweets and chips.  What you drink is equally as important – staying hydrated is essential.  Swapping sugary drinks and caffeine for water can actually increase your energy throughout the day and help you to think more clearly.

•Activity

Activity at any level is good for your health and well-being. This can range from taking a walk at lunch, a bike ride after work or running a 5K on the weekend. Getting your heart rate up and body moving can improve heart health, burn calories to control weight, and relieve stress. It’s also important to check in with your body and don’t push yourself too far.  You should never ignore aches and pains if they are not going away. If you experience any aches, pains, sprains or strains, you can come directly to Physical Therapy without the need for a prescription to help asses those issues and get you back to your training faster! 

Florida Hospital is here to help you with your training needs. Whether you’re having muscle or joint pain or you have nutrition questions, we’re here to support you. For more information about all the Florida Hospital medical services, visit FloridaHospital.com

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