Precautions

What steps can I take to help prevent injury while exercising?

• Warm up before exercising. Start with a less-intense (slower, easier) version of your cardio activity for 5 to 10 minutes.
• Wear proper shoes and protective gear.
• Take precautions in inclement weather. For example, if it's very cold out, dress in many layers that you can remove as you warm up, and cover your mouth so your lungs don't get irritated; avoid jogging if it's icy and slippery.
• Drink plenty of fluids before, during and after exercising.
• Cool down after exercising. Do a lower-intensity version of what you did during your workout for 5 to 10 minutes, or try some general cool-down exercises.
• Get adequate sleep.  source