Keeping Safe on Tennis Courts

If you want to keep running up and down tennis courts, safety is important. Sports injuries can not only take you out of the game, but they can cause permanent damage and even devastating disabilities. While you can’t always prevent an accident, there are several safety measures that can greatly decrease your odds of a twisted ankle or pulled muscle.

Warming up is an important part of any workout. It doesn’t take much effort at all and will likely improve your performance and get you revved up for the game. Don’t start reaching for your toes immediately though. You have to warm up your muscles first, and the best way to do that is by a light jog. A quick couple of laps around the court of a few minutes of jogging in place will help prepare your body and get your blood pumping. Once you’ve gotten your heartbeat going, a few stretches can finish off your warm up. There are several stretches you can use, and rotating them can help keep things fresh and your muscles loose. Whichever methods you choose, make sure to work all of your limbs, back and torso so you’re ready. In addition to warming up, after your workout on the tennis courts you’ll want to cool down. A similar routine, such as a short jog, some jumping jacks, and a few more stretches will help your body relax properly.

Learning how to hit the ball and move on the tennis courts is another important factor in keeping you safe. While anyone can grab a racket and start swinging, once you start getting serious, you will risk injury if you don’t get a bit of training from someone who is more experienced. Learning how to move the racket is important. Incorrect technique can lead to tissue tearing, sprains, or imbalance that can send you falling to the ground. It may not seem noticeable at first, but routinely using poor technique will eventually catch up with you. Don’t be afraid to watch and learn from others.

Your overall health and fitness needs to be taken into account before starting a game or new exercise routine as well. If you’ve had previous injury such as a broken ankle, you’ll have to remain very aware of how you move and use caution. Minimizing the time you play and taking regular breaks between rounds can help you stop from overexerting your body. If you begin to feel weak, dizzy, or shaken, it is important to rest. Breaking up your games is vital too. Keep your fitness up by weight training, swimming, jogging, or other activities that can help your body move in different ways.

It’s also important to use a bit of common sense to help you stop from injuring yourself while you play. Avoid poor weather conditions such as rain, which can make outdoor surfaces slippery or extreme heat. Protect yourself from the sun with a hat, clothing, or sun block. Keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and always use good quality tennis shoes that can absorb shock and support your ankles and arches properly.