Playing just one sport or performing just one type of
exercise is likely to strengthen certain muscles at the
expense of others, leaving some tendons and ligaments
weaker and thus more vulnerable to injury.
For example, shin splints a common running injury that
causes pain in the front of the lower leg are often the
result of the imbalance between the powerful muscles along
the back of the lower leg and the relatively weaker ones in
front.
Varying your activities is one way to prevent this muscle
imbalance. Another precaution is to consciously strengthen
the muscle groups you underused. And be sure to stretch all
muscles involved in your workout.
