How to Prevent Injuries

Arlo Gibbs (10) gets his injury taken care of by Miles Porter (10) to prevent further damage. Photo Credit: Evan Tompkins.

ACL sprains, concussions, broken bones, stress fractures, and tendonitis. These are some of the many injuries athletes may experience while partaking in sports. If gone untreated these injuries can have a lasting effect on an athletic career.  

 Mr. Betz, recommends “staying in shape, stretching is also very important and listen to your body, if you think something is wrong don't push it.” 

Having proper equipment for your sport helps make sure you do not get injured while playing. Helmets, pads, or supportive shoes are all accessories that help protect and support an athlete’s body when playing. 

Taking the time to learn the correct form and technique for your sport can also help reduce the risk of injury. Instead of going right into learning a new move or trick or anything you have not tried before, it is important to make sure you are taking it nice and slow, and that you do the movements correctly.  

Listening to your body is important for preventing injury. If something feels off or painful, do not push through it. Rest, ice, and seek medical attention if needed. Although it can be hard to take breaks, especially in a sport you love, listening to your body helps prevent injuries from occurring. Making it easier to continue playing once your body has healed properly. Rather than injuring yourself and having to take time before playing again and risking permanent damage.  

When working out, gradually increase intensity. Do not go from zero to a hundred in one day.  “In the start of the season we’ll see soreness, aches and pains, your body is adapting, and will soon adjust Just be sure to manage your workload and not go too hard,” explained Sports Medicine teacher Mr. Betz. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts to avoid overexertion. This will help your body slowly get used to your workouts and, once you get used to it, increase the intensity. This gradual approach will ensure that your body will not feel as tired when playing your sport. It will also put less pressure on you.  

Staying hydrated is sometimes overlooked. Drinking plenty of water before, during, and after your activity can prevent dehydration and muscle cramps. It is crucial to your body to stay hydrated even when you are not doing sports.  

Taking regular breaks gives your body time to rest and recover between workouts or games. Mr. Betz, recommends “staying in shape, stretching is also very important and listen to your body, if you think something is wrong don't push it.” 

 This can help prevent overuse injuries. Although you might want to keep going and not take breaks from working, this can cause long-term effects on the body when doing sports.