Preventing sports injuries

Causes: poor equipment and surfaces, not knowing the rules, weak technique and tactics, low fitness, ignoring safety rules in risky sports (gymnastics, diving, judo, wrestling), and lifting heavy weights without helpers.

Before competition: warm up properly (it sharpens reflexes), wear safety gear, follow the rules, check and repair equipment, and have officials inspect the arena.

Technical measures: build fitness so fatigue does not slow reactions; practise difficult skills before competing; coaches remind players of safety rules.

Good nutrition helps repair muscle and avoid overload injuries; the right shoes and clothing for each sport prevent bruises, blisters, sprains, strains and shin pain.

Supervision by a coach or instructor helps at every stage; 'prevention is better than cure'.