The Physical Demands of Soccer: Is it a High Impact Sport?

Soccer, also known as football, is one of the most popular sports in the world. With millions of players and fans, it is a game that brings people together from all corners of the globe. But, is soccer a high impact sport? This question has been debated by experts for years. In this article, we will explore the physical demands of soccer and determine whether it can be classified as a high impact sport. We will look at the scientific research, statistics, and testimonies from professional players to give you a comprehensive understanding of this topic. So, whether you’re a player, coach, or simply a fan, read on to find out the truth about the physical demands of soccer.

Understanding High Impact Sports

Definition of High Impact Sports

High impact sports are physical activities that involve repetitive jumping, running, or landing movements, resulting in significant stress on the joints and bones. These sports often require participants to be in top physical condition, as they can place significant strain on the body. The definition of high impact sports can vary depending on the source, but generally, they are characterized by the intensity of the physical exertion involved.

Characteristics of High Impact Sports

High impact sports are those that involve a significant amount of jumping, running, and quick changes of direction, resulting in a high amount of stress placed on the joints and bones. Some examples of high impact sports include soccer, basketball, and volleyball.

One of the main characteristics of high impact sports is the amount of jumping and landing that occurs during play. This can lead to increased risk of injury, particularly to the knees and ankles. In soccer, players frequently jump to head the ball, challenge for possession, or make tackles, which can put a significant amount of stress on the joints.

Another characteristic of high impact sports is the need for rapid changes of direction and sudden stops and starts. This can put a lot of stress on the muscles and ligaments, particularly in the lower body. In soccer, players must be able to quickly change direction and accelerate or decelerate at a moment’s notice, which can lead to fatigue and injury if not properly trained.

Additionally, high impact sports often involve a high level of physical contact, which can further increase the risk of injury. In soccer, players are frequently challenging for possession, making tackles, and engaging in physical battles, which can lead to injuries such as sprains, strains, and fractures.

Overall, the physical demands of soccer make it a high impact sport that requires a significant amount of physical fitness, strength, and endurance. Understanding the characteristics of high impact sports can help players and coaches to better prepare for the physical demands of the game and reduce the risk of injury.

Examples of High Impact Sports

High impact sports are those that involve a significant amount of jumping, bounding, or hopping. These movements put a great deal of stress on the joints, particularly the knees and ankles, and can increase the risk of injury. Here are some examples of high impact sports:

• Basketball
• Volleyball
• Tennis
• Soccer
• Badminton
• Handball
• Gymnastics
• Dance

It is important to note that high impact does not necessarily mean high risk of injury. Some sports, such as basketball and soccer, have been found to have a relatively low risk of injury compared to other high impact sports like gymnastics or dance. However, it is important for athletes to take steps to prevent injury, such as proper warm-up and cool-down, stretching, and strength training.

The Physical Demands of Soccer

Cardiovascular Fitness

Soccer is a sport that requires players to be in excellent cardiovascular shape. The game is played at a high intensity, with players running for long periods of time and engaging in frequent sprints. To be successful in soccer, players must have a high level of endurance and the ability to maintain a fast pace throughout the game.

One of the key aspects of cardiovascular fitness in soccer is the ability to perform at a high level during the latter stages of the game. Soccer matches can be long and physically demanding, and players must be able to maintain their energy levels and concentration for the full 90 minutes. This requires a high level of cardiovascular fitness, as well as good tactical awareness and mental toughness.

In addition to endurance, cardiovascular fitness in soccer also involves the ability to perform at a high level in short, intense bursts of activity. Soccer games are full of high-intensity moments, such as sprints to the ball, tackles, and attacks. Players must be able to quickly accelerate and decelerate, change direction, and move in all directions with speed and precision.

To develop cardiovascular fitness for soccer, players should engage in regular training sessions that include high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and other exercises that focus on endurance and speed. These workouts should be designed to simulate the demands of soccer, with a mix of running, sprinting, and agility drills.

In addition to physical training, players should also focus on their diet and hydration to support their cardiovascular health. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein can help players maintain their energy levels and stay hydrated during long periods of physical activity.

Overall, cardiovascular fitness is a crucial aspect of soccer performance. Players who are in excellent cardiovascular shape are better able to perform at a high level throughout the game, with the endurance and speed to make quick movements and maintain their energy levels for the full 90 minutes. By training regularly and focusing on their diet and hydration, players can improve their cardiovascular fitness and enhance their performance on the soccer field.

Muscular Strength and Endurance

Soccer is a sport that requires a high level of muscular strength and endurance. Players must be able to perform various physical activities such as running, jumping, kicking, and tackling. These movements demand muscular strength and endurance in the legs, core, and upper body.

Leg Muscles

The legs are the primary source of power in soccer. Players need strong leg muscles to perform quick starts, sudden stops, and changes of direction. The quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles are essential for running, jumping, and kicking. Strong leg muscles help players to maintain balance and stability while changing direction and making tackles.

Core Muscles

The core muscles, including the abdominals and lower back muscles, are also critical in soccer. A strong core helps players to maintain proper posture, balance, and stability while running and jumping. It also aids in transferring power from the lower body to the upper body during kicks and headers.

Upper Body Muscles

The upper body muscles, including the arms, shoulders, and chest, are crucial for controlling the ball and making precise passes. Strong upper body muscles help players to have better control over the ball, making it easier to dribble, pass, and shoot.

Cardiovascular Endurance

In addition to muscular strength, soccer also demands cardiovascular endurance. Players need to be able to run for long periods, making short bursts of speed, and recover quickly between efforts. Soccer matches can be physically demanding, and players must be in excellent condition to perform at their best throughout the game.

In conclusion, soccer is a sport that requires a high level of muscular strength and endurance in the legs, core, and upper body. Players must have strong leg muscles for running, jumping, and kicking, a strong core for balance and stability, and strong upper body muscles for controlling the ball. Cardiovascular endurance is also essential for performing at high levels throughout the game.

Flexibility and Mobility

Flexibility and mobility are crucial physical attributes for soccer players. They require the ability to perform a wide range of movements, including running, jumping, and changing direction quickly. These movements are essential for players to evade opponents, make accurate passes, and score goals.

In addition to these movements, soccer players must also have excellent balance and coordination. They need to be able to maintain their footing on different surfaces, including grass, turf, and concrete, while under pressure from opposing players. This requires a high level of body awareness and the ability to make split-second adjustments to their movements.

Moreover, soccer players need to have strong core muscles, which help them generate power and stability while moving. These muscles include the glutes, hamstrings, quads, and calves, which all work together to provide the necessary force and agility on the field.

Overall, the physical demands of soccer are extensive, and players must be well-rounded athletes with excellent speed, strength, endurance, and agility. To excel in this sport, players must continually work on developing their physical abilities and honing their skills through regular training and practice.

Agility and Coordination

In soccer, players are required to be agile and coordinated in order to successfully maneuver the ball and evade opponents. This involves quick changes of direction, precise movements, and the ability to maintain balance and stability while in motion.

Agility refers to the ability to change direction quickly and efficiently, which is essential for players in order to avoid tackles and make successful moves with the ball. Soccer players must be able to accelerate, decelerate, and change direction at a moment’s notice, which requires both physical and mental skill.

Coordination, on the other hand, refers to the ability to control one’s movements and balance in response to visual and auditory stimuli. Soccer players must be able to coordinate their movements with those of their teammates, while also maintaining control of the ball and avoiding tackles from opponents. This requires precise timing and spatial awareness, as well as the ability to make split-second decisions on the field.

Both agility and coordination are critical skills for soccer players, and they are developed through a combination of training and experience. Players must be able to react quickly to changing situations on the field, while also executing precise movements with the ball. Over time, through repetition and practice, players are able to develop the agility and coordination necessary to excel in the sport.

Foot-Eye Coordination

Foot-eye coordination is a crucial aspect of soccer that requires players to accurately direct the ball towards the goal while maintaining control over their movements. This skill is developed through a combination of physical attributes, technical training, and game experience.

• Physical Attributes:
  • Excellent balance and body control: Soccer players need to have a high level of balance and body control to maintain their foot-eye coordination during gameplay.
  • Fast reflexes: Soccer players must have fast reflexes to react quickly to changes in the game and make split-second decisions.
  • Good vision: Soccer players need to have good vision to accurately judge the position of the ball and their teammates.
• Technical Training:
  • Ball control exercises: Players need to develop their ball control skills through various exercises, such as dribbling, passing, and shooting.
  • Footwork drills: Footwork drills, such as changing direction and stopping on a dime, help players develop the necessary foot-eye coordination to control the ball.
  • Agility drills: Agility drills, such as ladder drills and cone drills, help players improve their foot-eye coordination by developing their ability to change direction quickly and accurately.
• Game Experience:
  • Match analysis: Analyzing match footage can help players understand the importance of foot-eye coordination and identify areas for improvement.
  • Game awareness: Soccer players need to be aware of their surroundings and the position of their teammates to make accurate decisions and maintain control of the ball.
  • Game-based training: Playing small-sided games and scrimmages can help players develop their foot-eye coordination in a match-like environment.

Overall, foot-eye coordination is a critical aspect of soccer that requires a combination of physical attributes, technical training, and game experience. Developing this skill can help players become more effective on the field and improve their overall performance.

Speed and Power

In soccer, speed and power are two essential physical attributes that contribute to the player’s overall performance on the field. Both of these attributes are crucial for success in soccer, as they enable players to move quickly, change direction, and control the ball with precision.

Speed in soccer refers to the ability to move quickly and efficiently across the field. This involves running at high speeds, making quick cuts and turns, and accelerating or decelerating as needed. Speed is a critical factor in soccer because it allows players to gain an advantage over their opponents, both on offense and defense. For example, a fast player can quickly get past a defender and create an opportunity to score a goal, or a defender can use their speed to recover and prevent an opponent from scoring.

Power, on the other hand, refers to the ability to exert force and strength on the ball and the field. This involves kicking the ball with power, making tackles, and controlling the ball with precision. Power is crucial in soccer because it enables players to make explosive movements and generate power in their shots and passes. A player with a strong shot can score from long distances, while a player with a powerful tackle can disrupt the opponent’s play and regain possession of the ball.

Both speed and power are essential physical attributes in soccer, and players must work to develop and maintain these attributes throughout their careers. This involves regular training, conditioning, and practice, as well as proper nutrition and rest. In addition, players must be strategic in their use of speed and power, as they must balance these attributes with other critical factors such as technique, tactics, and teamwork.

Overall, speed and power are crucial physical attributes in soccer, and players must work to develop and maintain these attributes to achieve success on the field. Whether it’s making a quick cut to evade a defender or making a powerful shot to score a goal, speed and power are essential tools for any soccer player.

The Impact of Soccer on the Body

Running and Jumping

Soccer is a sport that requires a high level of physical fitness, endurance, and agility. The physical demands of soccer are often considered to be high impact, which means that it can have a significant impact on the body. In this section, we will discuss the impact of soccer on the body with a focus on running and jumping.

Running is a fundamental aspect of soccer, and players are required to run for long periods, making sudden changes in direction, and sprinting. The continuous running involved in soccer can put a significant amount of stress on the body, particularly the legs, which can lead to injuries such as muscle strains, shin splints, and stress fractures. Additionally, the high-speed running involved in soccer can also lead to joint and tendon injuries.

Jumping is another essential aspect of soccer, as it is often required to make a successful tackle, head the ball, or jump for a cross. Jumping in soccer involves a combination of strength, power, and technique, and players must be able to jump effectively while maintaining balance and control. Repeated jumping in soccer can put a significant amount of stress on the legs, particularly the knees, which can lead to injuries such as patellofemoral pain syndrome and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries.

Furthermore, the physical demands of soccer can also lead to overuse injuries, which can occur due to the repetitive nature of the movements involved in the sport. These injuries can include muscle strains, tendinitis, and stress fractures, and can be exacerbated by a lack of proper training and recovery.

In conclusion, the physical demands of soccer can have a significant impact on the body, particularly with regards to running and jumping. Players must be able to run for long periods, make sudden changes in direction, and jump effectively while maintaining balance and control. However, these movements can also lead to injuries, particularly overuse injuries, which can be prevented with proper training and recovery.

Head and Neck Injuries

Soccer is a sport that demands a lot from players, both physically and mentally. It is a fast-paced game that requires split-second decision-making, explosive movements, and the ability to maintain focus for 90 minutes or more. One aspect of soccer that has garnered significant attention in recent years is the potential for head and neck injuries.

Injuries to the head and neck are common in soccer, and they can have serious consequences for players. According to a study published in the Journal of Athletic Training, head and neck injuries accounted for 21% of all injuries sustained by soccer players. These injuries can range from mild concussions to more severe brain injuries, such as chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).

One of the primary causes of head and neck injuries in soccer is collisions with other players or the ground. The high speeds and aggressive nature of the game can lead to accidents, and players may collide with each other or the ground while attempting to make a tackle or header. These collisions can result in blows to the head, neck, or spine, which can cause injury to the brain and other vital organs.

Another factor that contributes to head and neck injuries in soccer is the use of headers. Heading the ball is a fundamental aspect of the game, but it can also be dangerous. Repeated heading can cause damage to the brain and lead to conditions such as dementia and cognitive decline.

Research has shown that headers are associated with a higher risk of concussion and other head and neck injuries. A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that headers were responsible for 46% of all concussions sustained by soccer players. This risk is particularly high for young players, who may not have fully developed necks and brains.

To reduce the risk of head and neck injuries in soccer, coaches and players must take steps to protect themselves. This includes using proper technique when heading the ball, wearing protective gear such as helmets and mouthguards, and taking breaks between matches to allow the brain and body to recover.

In conclusion, head and neck injuries are a significant concern in soccer, and players must take steps to protect themselves. By using proper technique, wearing protective gear, and taking breaks between matches, players can reduce their risk of injury and stay safe on the field.

Concussions

Soccer is a high-impact sport that demands a lot from players’ bodies. One of the most significant risks associated with playing soccer is the potential for concussions. A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that occurs when the brain is subjected to a sudden and forceful impact. This can cause the brain to bounce or twist inside the skull, leading to damage to the brain cells and potentially causing a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms.

In soccer, concussions can occur from a variety of situations, including head-to-head collisions, falls, and even heading the ball. Studies have shown that concussions are a common injury in soccer, particularly among younger players. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), soccer accounts for a significant portion of all sports-related concussions among children and adolescents.

The symptoms of a concussion can vary widely and may not appear immediately after the injury. Some common symptoms include headache, dizziness, confusion, memory loss, and balance problems. In some cases, concussions can also cause more severe symptoms, such as loss of consciousness, vision problems, and difficulty speaking.

It is essential for players, parents, and coaches to recognize the signs of a concussion and seek medical attention if one occurs. Concussions are a serious injury that can have long-term effects if not treated properly. In some cases, players may need to be removed from the game and undergo a gradual return-to-play protocol to ensure that they do not suffer further injury.

Overall, while soccer is a beloved and rewarding sport, it is essential to acknowledge the risks associated with playing it. Concussions are just one example of the potential injuries that players may face, and it is important to take steps to minimize the risk of injury and promote player safety.

Ankle and Knee Injuries

Ankle and knee injuries are among the most common injuries sustained by soccer players. The high-impact nature of the sport, combined with the rapid changes of direction and the stops and starts, put a significant amount of stress on these joints.

Ankle Injuries

Ankle sprains and strains are common in soccer due to the frequent changes of direction and the unpredictable nature of the game. Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments surrounding the ankle joint are stretched or torn, often as a result of a sudden change in direction or a tackle. Ankle strains, on the other hand, occur when the muscles or tendons surrounding the ankle joint are stretched or torn, often as a result of a sudden stop or change in direction.

Knee Injuries

Knee injuries are also common in soccer, particularly among players who are involved in high-impact collisions or who make rapid changes of direction. Knee sprains and strains are common, as are more serious injuries such as anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears. ACL tears can be caused by sudden changes in direction or by landing awkwardly after a jump.

Overall, the physical demands of soccer can lead to a wide range of ankle and knee injuries. It is important for players to take steps to prevent these injuries, such as by stretching and warming up before games and practices, and by wearing appropriate footwear and protective gear.

Other Injuries

While soccer is known for its high-speed running and aerobic demands, it also poses a significant risk for other types of injuries. These injuries can be classified into two categories: acute and chronic.

Acute Injuries

Acute injuries are those that occur suddenly during a game or training session. Some of the most common acute injuries in soccer include:

• Ankle sprains: This occurs when the ligaments around the ankle joint are stretched or torn, usually as a result of a sudden change in direction or a tackle.
• Hamstring strains: This occurs when the muscles in the back of the thigh are stretched or torn, often as a result of sprinting or changing direction quickly.
• Muscle strains: This occurs when a muscle is stretched or torn, often as a result of a sudden movement or overexertion.
• Concussions: This occurs when the brain is injured as a result of a blow to the head, often from a collision with another player or the ground.

Chronic Injuries

Chronic injuries are those that develop over time, often as a result of repetitive movements or overuse. Some of the most common chronic injuries in soccer include:

• Knee injuries: This includes patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), iliotibial (IT) band syndrome, and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. These injuries are often caused by repetitive running, jumping, and cutting motions.
• Lower back pain: This can be caused by the repetitive bending and twisting motions required in soccer, as well as the heavy physical demands of the sport.
• Achilles tendinitis: This occurs when the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscle to the heel bone, becomes inflamed or damaged from overuse.

In addition to these injuries, soccer players are also at risk for cardiovascular disease, heat stroke, and dehydration, among other health concerns. It is important for players to take proper care of their bodies and to be aware of the risks associated with soccer in order to avoid these injuries and stay healthy throughout their careers.

The Role of Fitness Training

Fitness training is an essential component of soccer, as it helps players develop the physical attributes necessary to excel on the field. In addition to improving endurance, strength, and agility, fitness training can also help reduce the risk of injury in soccer players.

One key aspect of fitness training for soccer players is developing functional strength. This means targeting specific muscle groups that are critical to soccer performance, such as the legs, core, and upper body. Functional strength training can help improve explosiveness, power, and balance, all of which are crucial for success in soccer.

Another important aspect of fitness training for soccer players is injury prevention. Research has shown that strength training can help reduce the risk of injury in soccer players by improving muscular strength and endurance, as well as enhancing neuromuscular control. Additionally, incorporating flexibility and mobility exercises into a fitness routine can help prevent injuries by improving range of motion and reducing muscle imbalances.

Fitness training for soccer players should also take into account the demands of the sport. For example, endurance training is particularly important for players who need to cover long distances on the field, while plyometric training can help improve explosiveness and power for players who need to make quick bursts of speed.

In addition to traditional strength and conditioning exercises, soccer players can also benefit from incorporating drills and exercises specific to the sport. For example, agility drills can help improve footwork and balance, while ball control exercises can help develop the skills necessary to maintain possession and make effective passes.

Overall, fitness training is a crucial component of soccer performance, and players who prioritize their physical development are more likely to excel on the field. By incorporating a variety of exercises and drills, soccer players can develop the strength, endurance, and injury prevention strategies necessary to perform at their best.

Preventing Injuries

In soccer, the physical demands placed on players can result in a variety of injuries. Understanding how to prevent these injuries is crucial for both players and coaches.

• Warm-up and stretching: A proper warm-up and stretching routine can help prevent injuries by preparing the muscles for physical activity. This includes dynamic stretches, such as leg swings and high knees, as well as static stretches, like hamstring and calf stretches.
• Strength training: Strengthening exercises can help improve muscle endurance and reduce the risk of injury. Focus on exercises that target the legs, core, and upper body, such as squats, lunges, and plank variations.
• Proper technique: Learning and using correct technique for tackling, passing, and shooting can reduce the risk of injury. This includes using proper form when jumping, landing, and changing direction.
• Hydration: Staying hydrated can help prevent cramps and other heat-related injuries. Players should drink water before, during, and after games and practices.
• Listen to your body: If a player experiences pain or discomfort, it’s important to rest and seek medical attention if necessary. Ignoring pain can lead to more serious injuries.
• Flexibility and mobility: Improving flexibility and mobility can help reduce the risk of injury. This can be achieved through static and dynamic stretching, as well as foam rolling and self-myofascial release techniques.
• Proper equipment: Wearing appropriate soccer cleats and using proper shin guards can help protect players from injuries, such as ankle sprains and shin splints.
• Plyometrics: Plyometric exercises, such as jump squats and box jumps, can help improve power and explosiveness, which can reduce the risk of injury.
• Avoid overtraining: Playing too many games or practices in a short period can lead to fatigue and increase the risk of injury. It’s important to have rest days and allow for proper recovery between games and practices.
• Fitness testing: Regular fitness testing can help identify areas where a player needs improvement and develop a training program that reduces the risk of injury.
• Avoidance of excessive heading: Excessive heading of the ball can lead to head injuries, and it is recommended to limit heading in practice for players under the age of 10 and to teach proper heading technique for older players.

By incorporating these prevention strategies into their training regimen, soccer players can reduce their risk of injury and stay on the field for longer.

Enhancing Performance

Soccer is a physically demanding sport that requires players to be in excellent physical condition. In order to perform at their best, players must have a combination of strength, endurance, speed, and agility. This section will explore how soccer enhances physical performance and the benefits it provides to players.

Improving Cardiovascular Fitness

Soccer is a sport that requires players to be in excellent cardiovascular shape. Running, jogging, and sprinting are all part of the game, and players must be able to maintain a high level of intensity for extended periods of time. Playing soccer regularly can help improve cardiovascular fitness, which can benefit players in other areas of their lives as well.

Building Strength and Endurance

Soccer also requires players to have a certain level of strength and endurance. This is particularly true for positions such as defense and midfield, where players are required to make tackles and engage in physical battles for the ball. Regular training and practice can help players build the strength and endurance necessary to perform at their best on the field.

Developing Speed and Agility

Speed and agility are essential skills for any soccer player. Quick movements and changes of direction are necessary for evading opponents and making successful tackles. Playing soccer regularly can help players develop their speed and agility, which can also benefit them in other areas of their lives.

Improving Coordination and Balance

Finally, soccer can also help improve coordination and balance. Players must be able to maintain their balance while running at high speeds and making quick changes of direction. This can help improve overall body control and balance, which can benefit players in other areas of their lives as well.

Overall, soccer is a sport that provides numerous physical benefits to players. By regularly participating in the sport, players can improve their cardiovascular fitness, build strength and endurance, develop speed and agility, and improve coordination and balance. These benefits can not only enhance players’ performance on the field but also improve their overall health and well-being.

Final Thoughts

While soccer is often considered a low-impact sport due to its non-stop movement and change of direction, it is important to note that it still has a significant impact on the body. The physical demands of soccer can be compared to other high-impact sports such as basketball and rugby.

Injuries are a common occurrence in soccer, with the most common being sprains, strains, and tears. The constant stopping and starting, as well as the changing direction, can put a lot of stress on the joints and muscles, leading to these injuries.

Additionally, heading the ball can also cause injuries to the neck and head, with research showing that repetitive heading can lead to long-term brain damage. Therefore, it is important for players to take appropriate precautions when heading the ball and to limit the number of headers they perform.

In conclusion, while soccer may not be considered a high-impact sport, it still has a significant impact on the body. Players must be aware of the physical demands of the game and take the necessary precautions to avoid injuries.

FAQs

1. What is considered a high impact sport?

High impact sports are those that involve quick changes of direction, jumping, and landings, which put a significant amount of stress on the joints and bones. These movements can cause repetitive impact to the body, increasing the risk of injury.

2. Is soccer considered a high impact sport?

Yes, soccer is considered a high impact sport due to its fast-paced and high-intensity nature. Players are constantly running, jumping, and changing direction, which can put a significant amount of stress on their joints and bones.

3. What are the physical demands of soccer?

Soccer is a demanding sport that requires players to have a high level of physical fitness. It involves running, jumping, kicking, and tackling, as well as quick changes of direction and speed. Players need to be agile, strong, and have good endurance to perform at their best.

4. What are the risks of playing high impact sports?

Playing high impact sports can increase the risk of injuries such as sprains, strains, and joint damage. Repetitive impact can also lead to overuse injuries, such as tendinitis or shin splints. Additionally, high impact sports can increase the risk of concussions and other head injuries.

5. How can I reduce the risk of injury while playing soccer?

To reduce the risk of injury while playing soccer, it’s important to stay hydrated, warm up properly, and cool down after each session. Strength and conditioning exercises can also help improve muscle strength and reduce the risk of injury. Additionally, wearing appropriate footwear and using proper technique when tackling and jumping can help reduce the risk of injury.

How playing sports benefits your body … and your brain – Leah Lagos and Jaspal Ricky Singh