sports safety

Participating in sports is great for children and adults, both physically and psychologically. Sports can increase physical coordination, fitness, and self-esteem. In addition, sports can teach about teamwork and self-discipline. However, because children's bodies are still growing and their coordination is still developing, children are more susceptible to sports injuries. Approximately 3.5 million children ages 14 and under are treated for sports-related injuries each year. Half of all of those injuries can be prevented with proper use of sports safety gear, changes to the playing environment, and the establishment of sports rules that help prevent injuries. Most sports injuries occur most often due to the following factors: lack of education and awareness about sports safety precautions and potential injury, inappropriate or lack of equipment, improperly conditioned players. Sports safety gear should be sport-specific and may include such items as goggles, mouthguards, shin-elbow-knee pads, and helmets. The sports safety gear should fit properly. In addition, sports equipment (such as bats, baskets, and goals) should be in good working condition and any damage should be repaired or replaced. The playing area should be free from debris and water. The importance of a physical checkup: to make sure you or your child is physically fit to participate in a particular sport, a physician should conduct a "sports physical." These physicals can reveal physical strengths and weaknesses and help determine which sports are appropriate. China is the leading producers of sports safety equipment.