Lacrosse is known as \u201cthe fastest game on two feet.\u201d \u00a0Because it is such a fast paced game, players need to be at peak physical condition and maintain that condition throughout the season and offseason.<\/p>\n
Katie Palmer, ATI athletic trainer for Dover High School, explains why it is so important to be in shape and how doing so prevents injuries and improves performance.<\/p>\n
\u201cLacrosse is a very different game because players essentially never stop moving,\u201d says Katie. \u00a0\u201cTherefore, it\u2019s very important to stay in shape and maintain that shape throughout the year to avoid overuse injuries.\u201d<\/p>\n
What are the most common types of injuries in lacrosse?<\/strong><\/p>\n Muscle strains are one of the most common types of injuries in lacrosse, Katie says. \u00a0Since lacrosse is so fast paced, one movement could easily pull or strain a muscle. \u00a0Stretching is so important because it helps give elasticity to those muscles.<\/p>\n Since lacrosse is a contact sport, players are also at risk for concussions. To prevent concussions, Katie recommends performing regular neck muscle strengthening exercises and making sure helmets are tightly secured.<\/p>\n Another factor lacrosse players should take into consideration is the weather conditions. Lacrosse is a spring sport, however most practices start around February. \u00a0Because lacrosse begins during the winter months, muscle strains are even more common. \u00a0Players should be conscious about stretching and should also wear warm clothes such as compression shorts to keep heat in. To keep their muscles warm, players should stretch during breaks such as between quarters and half time.<\/p>\n