General Sports Injury Prevention Tips

Use our general tips to help pr​event injuries that apply to many sports.

Warm up

Ten minutes of light jogging or cycling before practice will increase circulation to cold muscles, making them more pliable and less prone to strain or rupture. Studies have shown that an active warm-up is associated with better athletic performance than a warm-up that consists only of static stretching.

Stretching

Tight muscles are more prone to injury. Tight muscles also put more stress on the attached tendons and bones, putting these tissues at risk for injury as well. Regular stretching can improve muscle flexibility. The ideal time to stretch is after your workout. Include all major muscle groups. Hold each stretch for 20 to 30 seconds and do not bounce.

Rest

Allow an appropriate amount of time for rest and recovery between workouts. Schedule at least 1 to 2 days off each week. It is also important to schedule an "off-season" -- a minimum of four weeks of rest from sports each year. This is easily overlooked when you play more than one sport or play one sport year-round.

Hydrate

Young people are more prone to dehydration and heat illness than adults, so you should not wait until you are thirsty to drink. Drink before, during, and after workouts. Drink water for exercise that lasts less than an hour. Use a sports drink for longer workouts. Avoid caffeine, juices and carbonated beverages.

Respond Promptly to Injuries

Pain is a sign of injury, stress or overuse. You should not play through pain. If pain does not resolve after a day or two of rest, consult your physician. The sooner an injury is identified, the sooner proper treatment can begin. The result is shorter healing time and a faster return to sport.

Participate in a Variety of Sports

A variety of sports provides for balanced muscle development, prevents burnout and decreases the risk for overuse injuries. Specializing in only one sport is not recommended until after puberty.

Begin New Activities Slowly

A good way to prepare for a new sport is to participate in a pre-season conditioning program. Increase distance or duration no more than 10 percent per week.

Use the Right Equipment

Be sure equipment fits properly and is in good condition. Runners should change their shoes every 300 to 500 miles.

Get a Sports Physical

Before sports seasons begin, find a sports medicine physician who can help assess readiness for sports, address any medical issues that may cause risk of injury and offer recommendations to ensure safe sports participation.