As the temperatures rise and summer days get longer, many athletes are eager to dust off their gear and jump back into their favorite sports.
But before you take the field or hit the courts, it’s important to remember that taking a few proactive steps can help avoid sports injuries this season.
It’s not just about staying in shape; there are some key tips every athlete should abide by while training in order to remain healthy and be competition-ready.
From having the right equipment to doing dynamic warmups and stretching – these five easy tips will keep you safe throughout summer athletic activities.
So make sure to read on for everything you need to know about how to stay unsusceptible from injury as you start your journey towards peak performance come fall!
#1 Have The Right Equipment
As a sports enthusiast, it’s imperative to have the right equipment for the game you’re playing. Not only does it enhance your performance, but it also protects you from unforeseen injuries.
For instance not using a helmet in a high-risk sport like hockey can result in head trauma. Or using a hockey stick that is too small for you could give you long-term back pain. Injuries not only hinder your progress in the game but also affect your daily routine.
Therefore, it is crucial to invest in high-quality sports gear to avoid sports injuries and have a smooth playing experience.
Remember to double-check your equipment before each game, and if you’re not sure about what you need, take advice from a professional to ensure your safety.
#2 Warm Up And Cool Down
As an expert in sports physical therapy, I cannot stress enough the importance of warming up and cooling down properly every time you start or stop a training or workout routine.
By doing so, you prepare your body for the work to come and help avoid sports injuries.
When you warm up, you increase blood flow to your muscles, which can reduce the risk of tears or strains. On the other hand, cooling down is equally as important as it allows your body to gradually return to its resting state.
During cool down, taking the time to stretch your muscles can also help avoid stiffness and soreness, which can ultimately lead to sports injuries.
Remember, taking a few extra minutes to warm up and cool down can make all the difference in your workout routine and overall fitness journey.
#3 Take Regular Breaks
As a seasoned athlete, it’s important to listen to your body and take rest breaks during your training routine.
Pushing yourself too hard without proper recovery can potentially lead to injuries and strains. Avoid sports injuries by realizing the importance of regular rest breaks in between workouts.
Instead of risking the health of your body, take a few days to let your muscles recover and come back stronger for your next workout.
Remember, rest, recovery, and relaxation are just as important as training and the hard work you put in. By taking breaks, you are not only taking care of your physical well-being but also improving your overall performance and success in the fall season.
#4 Mix Up Your Intensity
One of the best ways you can avoid sports injuries is by mixing up the intensities of your workout.
While high-impact workouts can be great for building strength and improving endurance, they can also place a lot of stress on your body, making you more susceptible to injuries.
Low-impact exercises, on the other hand, can be just as effective in training without the risk of injury. By incorporating low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling into your routine, you can give your body the recovery time it needs while still maintaining your fitness level.
So next time you’re planning your workout regimen, don’t forget to mix it up and give your body some TLC to avoid sports injuries!
#5 Wear Appropriate Footwear
I cannot stress enough the importance of wearing appropriate footwear for your chosen activity. It all starts with picking a sport-specific shoe.
For instance, you wouldn’t want to wear a running shoes for a tennis game. Wearing the wrong pair of shoes can cause significant damage to your feet, knees, hips and back.
Did you know that your feet support the rest of your body’s movements?
Yes, you read that right! Picking the right sports shoe holds much importance as it protects your feet and body from injuries.
In my experience, good-fitting shoes have certain characteristics like adequate cushioning, proper arch support, and a snug fit that secures the heel in place.
Empire Sports Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Can Help You Get Sports Ready
We know the importance of staying on the field or court this fall. Nobody likes to be sidelined because of injury and we want to help you stay in the game. If you want to work towards preparing for the season ahead or are worried about an injury keeping you from enjoying the game you love, then schedule a free phone consult or contact us to arrange a Sports Injury Risk Assessment. You can also feel free to give us a call at 845.675.8444 (We still like to talk on the phone!)
If you want more information on how to stay on the court or field this fall, visit us at Empire Sports Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation.
Don’t let concerns about an injury keep you from what you love to do!
We love to keep people in the Valley Cottage area mobile, active, and off pain pills – let our expertise go to work for you to help you return to the activities you love.
Don’t forget, you can schedule a no-obligation (and free!) phone consult or visit us at our Valley Cottage clinic as part of your Sports Injury Risk Assessment. Or just give us a call at 845.675.8444.
Until next time,
David Stedjan, PT
Other Free Resources from Empire Sports Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation…
Read Our Blog – 6 Stretches You Should Do Before Running
Read Our Blog – Can Stress Cause Body Aches And Pains?