Where does it hurt? Most of us end up with at least some aches and pains from a day on the stream. Maybe its your casting arm, shoulder or wrist, or maybe its your back or your hips or your feet. We spend hours preparing our equipment but give little thought to preparing our bodies for the fishing season.

In February and March 2012, physical therapist and club member Dr. Jesse Schulz gave two excellent and detailed presentations to MLSFF on preseason preparation we can do to avoid aches and pains and possibly serious injury. We have Jesse's presentations online here for reference.

• Part one familiarizes us with our fly fishing physiology, our joints, muscles, and tendons that carry the load when fishing.
• Part two gives an overview of things we can do to prepare, including food and hydration, and the principles of stretching and exercises to improve strength, resiliance and balance.
• Part three shows specific stretches and exercises that will help us prevent injury.

These are general guidelines only. As with any health advice, if you are not sure about whether a certain exercise or recommendation is right for you, consult your own doctor or physical therapist.