Playing a sport is a fun way to enjoy yourself, get exercise, and make friends. Unfortunately, a sports injury can put a stop to the fun and even affect your quality of life. Doctors and physical therapists have been taking note of ways athletes can prevent injuries while still being able to play the games they love. Here are a few ways to avoid a painful incident while playing sports.

How to Avoid a Sports Injury

1. Warm Up

Warming up doesn’t mean just stretching. A warmup should start your usual training with less intensity. Jumping right into a full workout can be dangerous, but muscles that have been lightly engaged aren’t as prone to injury.

Warm your muscles up until you start breathing differently or sweating a little. This will start your metabolism, which results in the connective tissues in your body becoming less fragile.

2. Get Rest

You can get rest in multiple ways, all of which are beneficial. Taking recovery days and breaks between training and playing will give your muscles and tissues time to repair. This way, they’ll be in peak shape when you return to your activity.

Also, make sure you’re getting proper sleep. People who are sleep deprived are more likely to struggle with chronic pain, and being fully rested improves athletic performance. Lack of sleep can also take a mental toll. Get sleep so that your brain is clear and focused when you’re in the game.

3. Wear Appropriate Gear 

If you’re just practicing, you may feel like protective gear isn’t necessary. As many physical therapists will tell you, wearing the proper gear for your sport is essential for preventing injuries. Invest in quality gear such as helmets, mouthguards, gloves, and pads to keep your body injury-free.

For a physical therapist to help relieve sports injury pain, contact Realhab Inc. in Parrish, FL. They’ll tailor an exercise and treatment plan to help you feel your best. Not only does their facility have a state-of-the-art gym with specialized equipment, but it also offers aquatic therapy. For more information on their services, visit them online or call (941) 776-5585.