LET’S PLAY SOCCER!

ccer LET'S PLAY fit There are 1.8 million Australians participating in Soccer with over 141,000 registered female participants. It is also the most popular organised sport for Australians beating all other football codes in the country, go figure!

Who would have thought! With the popularity of the game worldwide, it has finally tricked it's way down under. It's easy to play, requires minimal equipment and can be played in open spaces just about anywhere - even the humble Aussie backyard. Recreationally, it is a great equaliser with people of various ages and skill levels able to participate.

FROM A FITNESS PERSPECTIVE IT IS A TREMENDOUS WORKOUT!

  • increases fitness & endurance levels

  • improves cardiovascular health

  • burns body fat

  • improves muscle tone

  • builds strength

  • improves flexibility

  • great for muscle and bone strength

  • improves reflexes & agility

  • improves balance

THE BENEFITS OF SOCCER HAVE BROADER HEALTH IMPLICATIONS

  • minimal contact means less injuries - even though it is not far behind Aussie Rules when it comes to sporting injuries!

  • helps with co-ordination

  • as most fitness based activities, it is a great stress reliever

  • promotes teamwork

  • as a team sport it is a great way to socialise and make new fiends

As mentioned earlier, Soccer isn't without its injuries as a sport, and like anything prevention is always better than the cure.

WAYS TO AVOID INJURIES

  • Make sure you warm up adequately before starting a game

  • Play at an appropriate level that is inline with your age, fitness level and any injuries you may have

  • Keep your fitness up off the field

  • Wear appropriate gear - eg soccer boots, shin guards, mouth guard

  • Be aware of poor field conditions that can increase injury rates If portable goals are being used ensure they are safe and meet Australian Standards

  • Stay hydrated

  • Don't forget sunscreen on high UV days

  • See your doctor or allied health professional if you have any niggling pain before playing again

By: Chris Rabba, BAppSc(PE)