3 Tips for Injury Prevention

First and foremost, don't sweep injury prevention under the rug. It's a big deal — and it's becoming even bigger as injuries like ACL tears become increasingly common. I get the question of what individual athletes can do to work on injury prevention all the time. And my answer often surprises them with its simplicity.

#1 — Strength Train During the Season

I see athlete after athlete kill the strength training game in the off-season. My advice: keep it up during the season. Strength training in the off-season won't give you the results you want unless you continue to maintain it during the season. It improves muscle strength and endurance, balance/coordination, and resilience to fatigue.

#2 — Eat Enough Protein

Eating enough protein plays a crucial role in general injury prevention. Many athletes are undereating — and the worst part is that many of them don't even realize it. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and also aids in tendon and ligament strength, bone health, recovery, and muscle mass maintenance.

#3 — Practice Full Range of Motion

I preach range of motion constantly. At its core, practicing full range of motion improves flexibility and muscle balance, allowing for greater movement without strain. For athletes who have already suffered from injury, regaining full range of motion is essential to restoring normal function.

Injury prevention doesn't have to be complicated.