Injuries of any description are things which all professional sports players want to avoid like the plague. However, they are part and parcel of the sporting world, and it is possible that you may suffer some form of injury during your playing career. No matter what sport you play, you will always be at risk because of the demands you place on your body.
All kinds of injuries will involve a period on the sidelines, regardless of whether it is a muscle strain or more serious injury like an ACL tear. Prevention is always the best form of cure for sporting injuries, and these 5 tips for preventing injury should be rigorously followed at all times.
Warm Up
Warming up and warming down after a game or training session is vitally important for your recovery and endurance. It is always a bad idea to throw yourself straight into a vigorous workout or jump straight into a game. If you play for a team, your coach will have a program in place for before and after a game. But you should also have some system in place for when you train independently.
Remember to do light stretches and move around for around 5 to 10 minutes before you start your session. The warm-up session aims to get the blood flowing around the muscles you intend to use, which reduces stiffness and the risk of pulling a muscle.
Get the Right Gear
So many injuries can be caused by not using the right gear or equipment. It is crucial that you have well-designed sports shoes which help support your feet during your exercise. Ideally, you want to go to a specialist supplier who will be able to recommend the best shoes for your chosen sport.
Get Your Technique Right
Many amateur sports players put excessive pressure on different areas of their body because they don’t correctly utilize their legs or arms. A pitcher relies on much more than his throwing arm, while soccer players will need to use more than their feet.
Focusing on your overall body movements will improve your technique, while also helping to reduce injuries.
Don’t Push It Too Far
Most sports players often fall into this trap; they believe more intensity offers better results. Other players also play through pain, which is always a bad idea.
Listen to your body and schedule regular rest days into your training regime. If you feel any pain, then stop your training immediately and rest until the pain recedes. Taking time off will help you recover quicker from any aches and pains, while also vastly reducing your chances of developing a more severe injury.
Get Your Nutrition Right
The right diet is essential for any sports player, regardless of their level or sport. Get advice from a sports nutritionist about your ideal diet, and then stick to their protocol. Having ample carbohydrates and protein helps keep the muscles healthy, and aids recovery times.
Also, you should keep well-hydrated at all times so make sure you drink water before, during, and after you exercise.
Colorado Center for Orthopaedic Excellence 