To help protect your hands and
handle the ball easily,
make sure you use tape or gloves. Taping your fingers and wrists can
protect you and help improve your grip. Be sure your wrists and fingers
feel comfortable and have a full range of movement.
WEAR PROPER PROTECTIVE PADDING
Pads soften the impact of
falls and protect you from run-ins with opponents. Make sure you know
which padding goes where so you're properly protected.
SELECT APPROPRIATE FOOTWEAR
Proper
shoes are important to
keep you fast-and safe-on your feet. Long cleats work well for traction
on grass or short rubber cleats and flat soles work to grip artificial
turf. Make sure your shoes fit comfortably and support your ankles.
:: Safety tips ::
AVOID OVERHEATING BY
CONDITIONING
Athletes should begin
conditioning in the heat two weeks prior to the start of
official
practice. Athlete's bodies will be able to cool more efficiently by
increasing sweat production in response to the heat.
WARM UP AND REST IN THE SHADE
Prior to practicing, warm up
and make sure to rest on the shade. Be aware that even while resting,
exposure to heat can raise the body temperature, increase the loss of
fluids and decrease the blood available to the
muscles during workouts.
