Playing Summer Football Games? 3 Things You Need a Heads Up On
With summer in full swing, many people are looking to get out on the gridiron and show off their football skills. Football can be a dangerous activity if the proper protocols are not put in place. Here are three things that you should consider before playing some summer football.
Make Sure You Don’t Overheat
With the long days of summer also comes the heat. While it is great to take advantage of the sunny weather and get outside on the field, you need to be conscious of not overheating. Mueller Sports Medicine cautions that because football players are decked out in pads and a helmet, they are more vulnerable to the hot temperatures of the season. Especially in the warm summer months, it is critical to keep an eye on your hydration levels. Not taking in enough liquids will cause you to become overheated more quickly.
In addition to drinking enough fluids, you should ensure that your athlete is wearing fabrics that wick away heat and keep the body cool. Taking frequent breaks will also help the body to deal with the elevated temperatures. Having a reliable water cooler will help players hydrated and cool, and having proper ventilation and airflow with an outdoor fan can greatly improve the health of everyone.
Protect Your Head and Neck
When it comes to contact sports such as football, it is not necessarily a blunt injury that you should always be concerned about. Sometimes it is the repetitive hitting and tackling that can cause the most serious issues. Darras Law reports that a recent study showed that people can receive brain injuries without exhibiting the typical symptoms of having a concussion. The right pads and helmet will help to keep you safer in any type of contact sport. Do not neglect to make sure that the helmet is properly fitted. It is also a good idea to always wear a mouthguard.
Stretch and Warm Up Properly
While it may be tempting to just jump right into the game, it is imperative that you follow a strict stretching protocol. StretchCoach recommends stretching the muscles prior to the activity as it will help to reduce the chances of injury. Be sure to warm up lightly before stretching the muscles. Stretching a cold muscle can cause further injury. Even something as simple as a light jog up and down the field will ready the body for stretching.
Football is the ultimate team sport and the summertime is the perfect time to enjoy it. By following these few protocols, you can reduce the risk of injury and have a more positive experience out on the gridiron.