It’s the second week of deer camp

Maybe it’s time to make that trek deep into the woods or perhaps you’re already up in your stand waiting on the massive buck to make its appearance. Maybe you dropped your buck or doe and now it time to make the haul back to camp or your vehicle with your trophy. As hunters, we meticulously prepare for our time in the stand – from the camo to the ammo – but what about preparing our bodies? A few simple stretches can make the hike more bearable and the long hours sitting, tolerable.

Taking time to stretch provides healthy blood flow to the muscles, improving tension and elasticity and helping you avoid muscle cramps, for those long hours in the woods. The cramp itself will be a sharp sudden pain in the muscle and can at some degrees cause a lump in the muscle tissues under the skin. Stretching the musculature of the legs can also decrease the discomfort that may occur at the lower back – especially through long periods of sitting. Cramping occurs for a couple reasons – most often, it occurs when too much strain is placed on the muscles while they are inadequate to sustain the force being placed on them; and secondarily from dehydration.

Dehydration is not just the feeling of being thirsty from high levels of activity; it goes much deeper than that. The tissues of the body must stay hydrated so they have the ability to properly move and have the “slide and glide” we need to be at our full functioning ability. Staying hydrated primes the joints for activities like hiking and climbing and allows the body to function at its highest level while avoiding pain and injury.

Body mechanics are movements for good posture in regard to the way the body is made to move. Maintaining good posture is crucial while sitting, standing or walking to avoid experiencing muscle fatigue. Poor posture can set the body up for future soreness, stiffness, and ultimately, injury. Pay attention to staying in an upright position while sitting or standing to improve the body’s ability to function as a whole.

We’re all excited to get out there and hunt, but paying attention to your body and its needs will allow for an optimal hunt without the concern of injuring yourself. You’ll be able to focus on the trophy and bragging rights in the woods instead of complaining about soreness or tight muscles. If you do overexert yourself, feel free to contact us at (414) 425-9700 for a free pain screening.