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Basketball is a combination of both stamina and precision. During a game, athletes may run between two and three miles. Most teams practice daily, depending on the coach, so there is much energy needed for this contact sport. Knee injuries are always prevalent among basketball players, so I will give you tips to avoid this. In this article you will find many ideas for choosing equipment or gear, preventing injuries, building endurance, and improving precision. Also included are many nutrition ideas that will help to give the runner increased energy.
What kind of shoes should I buy for playing basketball?
The best shoe for any sport that involves running is a running shoe with plenty of support. You should find a rather light shoe, but be sure that it offers the support that you need for the impact to your knees from repeated jumps. A good rule to follow is to get the most support for the weight. Many coaches suggest a basketball shoe like Nike air, but cross trainers or running shoes with ample support are usually fine. You want a very supportive shoe that has built-in support for the arches. Many coaches for added ankle support recommend a mid-high top. When you go shopping, check the support and intended usage of the shoes very carefully. Again, check with your coach before purchasing shoes.
How do I prevent shin splints?
Shin splints are common among athletes that do any amount of running. This is severe pain in the area of the shin that lies directly below the knee, which is in the middle of the lower leg. These are sharp, stabbing pains. Sometimes the athlete will even get small bumps at the site of the pain. If you experience this, the best remedy is to soak in a warm tub and rest. Continuing with training can make the shin splints worse. A basketball player should tell his or her coach immediately if they think that they have shin splints. You should see a doctor for severe cases of shin splints or if your coach recommends it.
How can I avoid injury?
1. Since many basketball players must run on a very hard surface, there are many opportunities for injuries to the knees. To keep yourself safe, be sure to wear comfortable shoes with good traction and support. If you have knee pain, wear a knee brace that can be purchased at any drugstore.
2. Basketball is a contact sport, so there is always the possibility of injuries in other areas as well. If you are supposed to wear glasses, by all means, wear them! So many athletes are injured unnecessarily in this way.
3. Remember to double or even triple tie your shoes. This will prevent trips and falls.
4. If you have a previous injury or sore spot like a knee or ankle that is prone to give out on them, you should wear an elastic brace for additional support. Also, an athlete should never compete if they are seriously injured.
I get pains in my side or "stitches". What can I do to lessen these during a game or practice?
1. One thing that helps to relieve these "stitches" is if the runner raises his or her arms above their head while running. Sometimes this is not possible during a game. Adequate hydration before a game should prevent this in most cases.
2. The best thing to do is to prevent these pains in the side. The best way to do this is by drinking plenty of fluids prior to game time. An athlete should consume fluids prior to the start of the game and also during play. Water and Gatorade is a good choice. Check with the coach on what and how much to drink before competing.
How can I be more accurate on my free throws?
1. Practice
2. Practice
3. Practice
No, this was not a typo. This is one of the hard facts of basketball. It is true. Continued practice is essential for precision and successful shots. It is a good idea to shoot a few hoops every single day. Try doing this in your spare time after school, at lunchtime, or anytime that you get a chance.
I've heard that certain foods can give you energy. What should I eat before racing?
1. Although athletes should always maintain a healthy diet low in fat and high in carbohydrates, this is especially important the few days prior to a game.
2. Most runners try to eat loads of carbohydrates a day or so prior to the competition. A good habit to get into during the season is making pasta the main dish on those days prior to the game.
3. Remember to eat a healthy breakfast that is low in fat and high in carbohydrates. Try to avoid dairy products. Pancakes, French toast, orange juice, and bananas are all good choices.
Just like with anything else, a good dose of common sense is the best medicine for what ails you. Prevention is the key to preventing injury and being prepared. Think ahead and stay safe!
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