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The number of sports activities available for children and adults seems to be growing all the time. The good news is that participating in sports isn't just fun; it can also develop fitness and coordination. The bad news is that with any sport, injuries can happen. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, however, up to half of all sports injuries may be preventable - if you take precautions both before and during participation.
Different sports require different types of training. But the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) says there are some pre-sport precautions that apply in most cases:
If your children are getting involved in sports, the American College of Sports Medicine recommends checking out the qualifications of the coaches and trainers who'll be working with them. With children, it's also important to avoid any tendency to pressure them too much or insist they get involved in sports they don't enjoy. By using too much pressure, parents may inadvertently create in their children a dislike for sports and exercise that could last a lifetime.
When participating in sports, it's also essential to have all the proper equipment. This includes not just the playing gear, but sport-specific safety gear as well.
Some other guidelines from AAFP include:
Finally, it's important to stress the need to follow the rules. Whatever the sport, it may not always be possible to prevent injuries, but taking extra precautions before and during sports can certainly reduce your risk.
All Concept Communications material is provided for information only and is neither advice nor a substitute for proper medical care. Consult a qualified healthcare professional who understands your particular history for individual concerns.
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By printing and/or reading this article, you agree that you accept all terms and conditions of use, as specified online.