Facts on Hockey Injuries
Hockey is a popular international Olympic sport which places many demands on the technical and physical skills of players. During the course of play, players accelerate, decelerate and change direction all whilst trying to hit, pass, stop/trap or dribble the ball. As a result, injuries can and do occur.
Safety Tips for Hockey
To keep injury-free players can:
- Always warm up, stretch and cool down, especially the lower back.
- Undergo a fitness program to develop endurance, strength, balance, coordination and flexibility.
- Use equipment appropriate to your age and stage of development.
- Wear a mouthguard, preferably custom-fitted, and shock absorbent shin guards at all times.
- Goalkeepers must wear headgear, leg guards and kickers during training and competition. They should also consider hand, body, upper arm, elbow, forearm and thigh protectors.
- Seek professional advice on footwear.
- Consider preventive ankle taping and bracing to reduce injury risks.
- Drink water before, during and after play.
If you’d like to know how this compares with a sport like squash, you can read more here.
