Getting injured seems to be an inevitable part of playing football and many other sports, especially those that require a lot of running around, whether it’s a minor knock or a broken bone. Sitting on the sidelines is undoubtedly one of the most frustrating parts of the beautiful game, and even though it is not always preventable, it pays to do whatever you can to escape it. Here’s what you can do to avoid picking up injuries.
Warm up and Cool Down
Even if you just enjoy the occasional kick about with your mates, a warm-up is essential. It is often the most overlooked part of any training regime. Sprinting and tackling without giving your muscles time to warm up is a sure way to get injured. It might be a little tedious at times but it’s much better than sitting out for weeks or months unable to play. A cool down is just as important to help your muscles stretch out, so make time for it after the game.
Maintain Fitness
If you think you’ll have the stamina to play a full game of 5-a-side without exercising regularly, you’re wrong. You also increase your chances of picking up an injury, so it’s important to strengthen your body and maintain your fitness. Taking part in regular training sessions or perhaps going out for a weekly run will help to keep your fitness levels up.
The Right Equipment
With many professionals endorsing football boots, it’s easy to get taken in by your favorite player dangling their footwear in front of you. Instead, go for boots that fit well above anything else. Lace them right to the top to give you extra support and pair them with shin pads with ankle supports to prevent injury. Discount Football Kits, such as those found at kitking can give you an idea of what other pieces of kit are worth the money and can help keep your players cool and safe during training and their matches.
Common Sense
Just take Nicolai Muller, who ruptured his knee ligament whilst celebrating a goal. The winger performed his helicopter celebration, involving several spins, before jumping into the air and landing awkwardly, causing him to miss the next seven months. Probably not the best decision in hindsight. You should also pay attention to your body, don’t push yourself if you feel pain. Instead, take it as a warning that you’re overdoing it and ease up and find time for your body to rest and recover.
Rushing Back
Players can’t wait to get back to the game but this comes with the risk of rushing the recovery. Get the all-clear first from sports professional or physiotherapist and then ease yourself back into it gently at first. If you rush, you could just end up with another injury before you’ve made an impact.