Your Health Today
Exercise Injuries Spike in January as New Year’s Fitness Resolutions Begin
If focusing on your health is a top priority in 2026 you are definitely not alone. According to a recent YouGov survey “exercising more” ranks as the most common New Year’s resolution this year. From packed gyms to crowded walking trails January often marks a fresh start for people hoping to build healthier habits. But health experts are urging caution. Medical professionals say exercise related injuries tend to spike in January largely because many people jump into new fitness routines too quickly after weeks or months of inactivity. “People are motivated which is great” says Mandy Gaither who explains the trend. “But motivation without a plan can sometimes lead to injuries.”
Doctors and physical therapists report seeing an increase in muscle strains joint pain tendon injuries and back problems during the first few weeks of the year. Many of these injuries are preventable and often happen when people push themselves too hard too fast.
Experts say common mistakes include:
Skipping warm ups and cool downs
Lifting too much weight too soon
Increasing workout intensity too quickly
Ignoring pain or soreness
Fitness specialists recommend easing into exercise gradually especially for beginners or those returning after a long break. Starting with low impact activities like walking stretching or light strength training can help the body adjust safely. “Consistency matters more than intensity” health experts say. “It is better to start slow and build up than to get sidelined by an injury.” They also advise listening to your body staying hydrated wearing proper footwear and considering professional guidance from a trainer or healthcare provider. As January fitness goals take center stage experts stress that staying injury free is key to long term success. The goal they say is not just to start strong it is to stay healthy all year long.
By: Mary Strong
January 12, 2026
Latest Instagram Posts
Who makes the NBC Top 3, winner will be announced Sunday night on NBC Palm Springs, with the player who makes the number one spot winning a $250 prize from @hondaofthedesert! Comment below if it will be 1 Silias Bloodworth with the scoop and score, 2) Eusebio Gallo with the kickoff touchdown, 3) Keymorie Rogers with the throw on the run, 4) Damian Durinzi with the rushing TD, or 5) Mario Gallo with the dot towards the endzone #fypage #fridaynightlights #football #hondaofthedesert #highschoolfootball
Hundreds gathered outside the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., for the “Hands Around the Kennedy Center” rally, protesting President Donald Trump’s handling of the performing arts center. The demonstration came after the Kennedy Center board voted to close the facility for repairs and amid an ongoing dispute over the center’s future. Actress and singer Lynda Carter was among those who addressed the crowd. apnews.com Watch the latest video on NBC Palm Springs.
Alice B. has announced it’s closing its doors. It’s cozy atmosphere and unique seasonal menu made it a must try and even landed it in the Michelin guide. @susanfeniger and @marysuemilliken left their mark on the desert over at Living Out and it will be missed. Here’s a clip from one of our last interviews with Susan.
Cathedral City City Council votes to rename “LGBT+ Days” to “Cathedral City Pride”. The council approved the change in a 5-0 vote during its latest meeting, updating the official name of the city’s annual celebration. Stay tuned with NBC Palm Springs to see what this means to the Coachella Valley Community #CathedralCity #pride #CityCouncil #CoachellaValley #LocalNews
Discover the Coachella Valley with the Everything Palm Springs app. From iconic attractions and hidden gems to local restaurants, shops, entertainment and even filming locations, the map-based app is designed to help both visitors and locals find more of what the desert has to offer. Creator Lindsay Kinkle is also expanding the app with video tours and narrated guides, giving users another way to explore Palm Springs and the surrounding communities. Local businesses like Buena Matcha are also getting a chance to connect with new customers through the platform. As Lindsay says, there’s so much to do and enjoy here — you just have to know where to look. #PalmSprings #CoachellaValley #EverythingPalmSprings #PalmSpringsApp #VisitPalmSprings DesertLife LocalBusiness CoachellaValleyBusiness NBCPalmSprings
Social Time with Thalia & Jerry
What’s next for Palm Desert? Join community leaders, local businesses and regional stakeholders for the 2026 State of the City Address. Topics: • Economic Development • Infrastructure • Public Safety • Community Programs • Palm Desert’s Future CTA: Friday, September 18 | 11:30 AM JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort
Former Silvercrest CEO, William Rodriguez is expected back in court today in connection with the deadly 2024 Cathedral City hit and run that killed a woman. The murder charge was dismissed, but Rodriguez still faces felony hit and run and suspended license charges.
Social Time with Thalia & Jerry
Murder suspect Vicky Kim has once again not been cleared to appear in court. Kim is accused of killing her husband at their Palm Desert condominium complex. Her arraignment has now been delayed three times. Stay tuned with NBC Palm Springs as we track the latest developments in this case. #VickyKim #PalmDesert #CoachellaValley #BreakingNews #CourtUpdate NBCPalmSprings