Golden Rules for Preventing Sports InjuriesKnow the rules of play for that particular sport and understand the rules. Rules of conduct are designed to prevent injuries and must be followed by everyone. Stiff penalties should be enforced for those breaking the rules of conduct.
Here are the golden rules for preventing sports injuries: Rule #1 - Be in proper physical condition for the particular sport that you are playing. Do not expect the sport to get you into shape; you should be in physical shape before starting to participate in the sport in order to avoid injury. A regular schedule of conditioning can help to prevent most sports injuries. Rule #2 - Know the rules of play for that particular sport and understand the rules. Rules of conduct are designed to prevent injuries and must be followed by everyone. Stiff penalties should be enforced for those breaking the rules of conduct. Illegal blocks and illegal tackles are defined and enforced for the safety of the players. Rule #3 - Wear the proper protective gear for the sport you are playing. Safety equipment must be used and properly maintained. Never play without proper safety gear that is designed to protect your body parts. Rule #4 - Be well rested prior to the practice, game or event. Athletes who follow schedules that do not allow enough time to rest in-between training and games have a higher rate of injuries than those who are allowed appropriate rest times. Improper rest leads to injuries of overuse, can create fatigue which than impairs judgment that can lead to injury.
Rule #5 - Warm-up before playing because warm muscles are less likely to be injured. The warm-up should be appropriate for your sport. Specific muscle groups should be targeted during the stretches to help minimize the risk for injury. Your warm-up should include a mental warm-up too in order to ready your mind for game strategy. Rule #6 - Never participate in sports when fatigued physically or mentally or when you are in pain. Pain is your body's way of communicating that you are injured. The first rule for injury treatment is to stop activity. Playing while injured is just asking for more injury. Rule #7 - Injuries are more likely to occur when there is a history of injuries or when there is a high number of consecutive training days prior to the sporting event without appropriate rest. Eliminating the risk for injury includes reducing all risks that are in control of the player and coach.
Rule #8 - Allow for adequate recovery if an injury has occurred. Muscles, bones and connective tissue need time to heal before being subjected to activity. Playing before injuries are properly healed leads to further injury and may increase the risk for serious injury. Follow these 8 Golden rules for preventing sports injuries and you will enjoy your sport more because you will have more playing time. Sports Injury News
02/04/2012 |
