Preventing injury
Equipment and clothing
- equipment worn to protect the body. Shin pads protect the tibia in hockey and football; a gum shield protects the teeth in rugby and boxing; a helmet protects the head in cycling and when batting in cricket.
- Correct clothing and footwear: football boots with studs give grip on grass, so players don't slip; trainers with good support reduce the risk of ankle injuries in netball; jewellery is taken off, so it can't catch or cut.
Key terms
Competition, lifting and preparation
- matching opponents by age, size, weight or ability, so no one is outmatched. Boxers compete in , and junior rugby is played in age groups.
- Lifting and carrying equipment safely: bend the knees, keep the back straight and hold the load close. Heavy or awkward equipment, such as gymnastics mats or a trampoline, should be carried by several people.
- a warm-up prepares the muscles, so they are less likely to strain; a cool-down reduces soreness and stiffness afterwards.
Key terms
Applying it to one sport
An amateur boxer can reduce the risk of injury by:
- wearing : a head guard, a gum shield and padded gloves
- competing at the right level: against boxers of the same weight category and a similar experience
- warming up before sparring, to prepare the muscles and raise the heart rate.
Exam tip
When a question names a sport, every example must come from that sport. A shin pad is a good example for hockey, but not for boxing.