When you participate in a sport like martial arts, your training does come with some risk of getting injured. Students who compete and spar might be at a greater risk for injury, but even if you’re not participating in full-contact martial arts, there is still a chance that you experience even a mild injury at some point.
While injuries may not be completely avoidable, there are some steps you can take to decrease your risk for a martial arts injury.
Know your fitness level.
Martial arts is for all fitness levels. An awareness of your fitness level and limitations can help you avoid a martial arts injury. If you’re in the process of improving your fitness, make sure that you are starting slow with your training and ramping up gradually. Training too much, too hard, too soon can be unsafe and lead to an injury that keeps you off the mats.
Learn and practice proper technique.
Another way to decrease your risk for a martial arts injury is to learn and practice proper technique. As a beginner, take the time to learn how to move correctly with good timing and body awareness. As you gain experience, don’t stop drilling fundamental movements. Use proper technique as your foundation, and never rely on brute strength or power to muscle through your training.
Always warm up.
When you skip a warm-up, your body will be unprepared for training. Not only does this reduce your performance, but it also can lead to injury. Always warm up before training. The warm-up increases your body temperature and circulates blood to your working muscles.
Cool down and stretch.
After training, take time to cool down and begin the important recovery process. Taking ten to fifteen minutes after a class or training session gives your heart rate a chance to get back to normal. This is also a great time to do some gentle stretching when your muscles are already warm.
Stay hydrated.
Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water may not be the first thing you think of when it comes to decreasing your risk for injury, but hydration does play a role. Dehydration hurts performance. But drinking plenty of water keeps your muscles and connective tissue pliable while helping your body stay cool throughout a tough workout through sweat production and evaporation.
At Classic Fight Team in Fountain Valley, we believe that martial arts can truly better the mind and body of anyone willing to participate. To learn more about the programs we’re currently offering, contact us today.
