How to Avoid Common Sports Injuries

You will undoubtedly want to avoid a sports injury whenever possible. It is common for a player to hurt themselves when regularly participating in a sport; however, an accident can be avoidable if you know the common mistakes players and athletes can make.

Warm Up

Whether you play soccer, basketball, rugby, hockey or another sport, warming up is essential for you to enjoy a successful, injury-free game. However, so many people fail to do just that and could suffer from a pulled or strained muscle that will not only cause them pain but could pull them out of a game. The average warm-up should take between 6 to 10 minutes and should consist of dynamic movements that stretch your shoulders, hips, ankles, and arms. For an effective warm up, you can march on the spot, jog, walk briskly or perform shoulder rolls, knee bends, heel digs or knee lifts.

Stay Hydrated

It is vital you remain hydrated when performing any form of physical activity. It doesn’t matter if you’re a hiker, swimmer or skateboarder, you must drink water to fuel an exercise, especially if you are working out in warmer temperatures. Water will provide the fuel you need to excel in your sport and ensure you maintain a healthy mind and body.

Protective Sporting Equipment

Whether you’re a novice football player or have secured a sports scholarship, you should ensure you never play a game without protective equipment that is staple in any sport. Whether you require boxing gloves, headgear or shin pads, you must protect the most vulnerable parts of your body. You should also never underestimate the importance of the correct footwear, as your shoes will provide foot and ankle support. For example, if you are a runner, you must invest in some high-quality running shoes to aid both your performance and prevent injury.

Know Your Body

It is so easy to overexert yourself when performing a physical activity, which is why you must listen to your body when it has had enough. Only perform exercises you know your body can handle and know when it is time to stop.

You should also pay close attention to your sporting technique, because how you play a sport could result in an injury. Whether you are throwing a football, using a tennis racket or lifting weights, pay close attention to your form, which could reduce the likelihood of a sports-related injury.

Cool Down

You must warm-up at the start of an exercise and cool down once it comes to an end. As soon as a game or activity is over, spend five to ten minutes slowing down your pace by walking, which will allow your heart rate to return to its normal pace. This will not only aid the flow of oxygen around your body, but it can prevent muscle stiffness.

While it is impossible to avoid any form of injury during a sport, the above tips can help you prevent a sports-related accident.