Health "Tech Tip"

[Konrad]

I recently read an article in one of my engineering subscriptions, Machine Design Magazine, authored by Lanny Burke. The discussion covered workplace injuries and common misconceptions regarding physical preparation for work activities. Of course, I immediately applied the information to what else...archery.

Over and over again I read and hear of shoulder, elbow and wrist injuries in the pursuit of The World's Oldest Sport. I also read in another source the majority of competing archers suffer serious shoulder injury (rotator cuff primarily) at some point in their careers. A bitter fact remains that while youth can shorten recovery time, youth does not prevent these injuries. If ever any of you have suffered torn ligament or muscle damage, you know that a second dose is to be avoided at all costs. The proverbial ounce of prevention is definitely worth the pound of cure.

I have supplied a link to Mr. Burke's article below. Far be it from me to steal his thunder but the gist suggests that "warming up" before stretching, prior to vigorous exercise prevents just those connective tissue types of injuries. In other words, rapid, small movements without weights stimulate blood flow through the muscle and connective tissues. This blood flow loosens the fibers and allows stretching and then exercise (in this case practicing archery) to be accomplished without the dreaded tear.

In the case of archery, the saying "No pain, No gain" is completely counterproductive.

Remember to have fun AND be safe.
K

http://machinedesign.com/article/bad-stretching-can-defeat-good-design-0510

[stujay]

Good reminder, thanks

[TxAg]

Thanks

[maxwell]

Thanks, I always stretch first before shooting, so now some shoulder shrugs before stretching is my new warmup.

[Tomas]

Mr. Burke's article makes sense, I'm going to try it.