Fall Sports Tips: Adults and Children Avoid Sports Injuries by Being Prepared

08 Aug Fall Sports Tips: Adults and Children Avoid Sports Injuries by Being Prepared

Fall means colorful leaves, good food, and lots of sports. Whether your kids are in elementary or high school, a ton of preparing goes into starting fall sports and continuing safely throughout the season. We know it can be overwhelming for parents with the start of school, sports and everything else that goes into everyday life. So we’re offering you this helpful checklist :

• Stay hydrated. We can’t emphasize this point enough. Be sure the kids have enough water to stay hydrated in the heat. Don’t skimp on the water or gatorade as the weather cools.
• Always warm up and cool down. Injuries occur more to people who jump into a workout or sport without properly warming up. Make sure to get to practice or the game early enough for the warm up.
• Buy the right shoes. Be sure your kids’ cleats are well fitted and the proper style for the specific sport. Talk to the coach to get proper tips on which to buy.
• Purchase proper gear. Helmets, mouth guards, pads, good cleats. All of this gear is necessary to being safe during fall sports. Some gear may need to be replaced from last year either because of use or the growth of your child. Double check the gear you provide now before the season starts and again close to the first practice or game. Children’s growth spurts happen suddenly and they may outgrow gear in the middle of a season.
• Get a physical before starting any sport. You need to make sure your body is up for the task of exertion.
• Strength training and stretching are your friends. Put in a little time at the gym to help improve your performance. A proper stretch should be held for 10-12 seconds.
• Never play through the pain. You aren’t being brave. You are being dumb. If your child is injured, have them see a physician or physical therapist before playing or practicing again.

We hope these tips help keep you or your kids stay safe during this fall sports season. If you have questions or would like to find out more about our 24/7 gyms in Mantachie and Mooreville, contact us at 662-282-4949.