Which physical activity suits you the most?

There are a huge number of activities that will help to improve your physical condition and health. We have made an analysis of the features of the most popular physical activities.

This article will focus primarily on indications and contraindications. However, it is primarily informational in nature. Therefore, before you start training, we recommend you consult with your doctor.

Yoga

(independent training or group training)

Indications:

• back problems,such as low back pain, scoliosis, lordosis, kyphosis, herniated discs,
• arthritis and arthrosis;
• dystonia;
• functional disturbances of the internal organs (digestive system, excretory system, the reproductive system, etc.);
• chronic fatigue syndrome;
• insomnia and poor sleep;
• improving the psychological and emotional state;
• psychosomatic consequences of prolonged stress.

Contraindications:

• the overall severity of the condition, when no action is practically impossible since only lead to deterioration;
• mental disorders (borderline mental states, epilepsy, psychosis, schizophrenia)
• organic heart disease – uncompensated defects;
• blood disease;
• infectious lesions of the musculoskeletal system;
• severe traumatic brain injury;
• spinal injury unsatisfactory compensation;
• severe disorders of body image;
• malignant neoplasms.

Even in cases that are listed here, proper yoga practice can positively affect your health. But, it is important to do it under the supervision of an experienced instructor, and preferably on an individual basis.

Swimming

(independent or individual training with a coach)

Indications:

• spinal problems;
• disease of the cardiovascular system;
• joint diseases
• varicose veins or a predisposition to it; 
• problems with the respiratory system;
• increased nervous irritability;
• weight loss;

Contraindications:

• heart, kidney and liver failure;
• tuberculosis or syphilis;
• pneumonia, flu, tonsillitis and other viral infections;
• intestinal disorders or infections;
• allergies;
• epilepsy;
• bleeding in the abdomen;
• after a brain injury;
• fever.

Running

(independent or group training)

You can run both on a treadmill and on the street. It is important to take into account that the load on the musculoskeletal system in these cases will be different. To choose the option that best suits you, it is a good idea to consult a specialist.

Indications:

• improving the psychological and emotional state; 
• insomnia and poor sleep;
• improving the functioning of internal organs, especially the cardiovascular system;
• strengthening the respiratory system;
• weight loss;
• strengthening the nervous system.

Contraindications:

• any diseases in acute form;
• disorders of the musculoskeletal system with painful manifestations;
• pulmonary and heart failure;
• severe hypertension;
• heart failure;
• visual impairment (you should consult a doctor)

Stretching

(group training or individual training with a coach)

Indications:

• improve flexibility and range of motion about joints; 
• improve performance in physical activities; 
• decrease the risk of injuries; 
• help joints move through their full range of motion; 
• enable muscles to work most effectively

Contraindications:

• joint instability;
• diseases affecting the tissues being stretched;
• acute injury;
• vascular injury;
• excessive pain when stretching;
• inflammation or joint effusion.

Walking

Indications:

• improving the psychological and emotional state;
• psychosomatic consequences of prolonged stress;
• insomnia and poor sleep;
• weight loss;
• noting the beauty of the world around;
• clearing the head.

Contraindications:

• any diseases in acute form, in which it is contraindicated to go out.

Gym Activities

(independent or individual training with a coach)

Classes in the gym are very flexible. So, you can choose exactly the exercises that you need, and avoid those that can cause harm. To do this, it is important to consult your doctor first, and then make a competent program with a trainer.

Indications:

• improving the overall health of the body;
• strengthening muscles and immunity ;
• working on the body shape;
• weight loss;
• remove the stress that has accumulated over the working day;
• strengthening the heart circulatory and respiratory systems;
• improving performance.

Contraindications:

• a severe form of scoliosis;
• benign and malignant tumors;
• damage to the ligaments and joints;
• damage to the spine;
• condition after serious injuries and fractures;
• hypertension;
• acute and chronic diseases of the digestive tract.

Each of these activities has its own features. However, what you like to do is not less important. If the activity doesn't bring you any pleasure, it is no matter how useful it is, you are unlikely to engage in it. Therefore, listen to yourself and your body and choose what brings you both benefit and joy.