Sports are a great way to get exercise and enjoy the great outdoors. Unfortunately, they can also lead to a number of unwanted injuries. By following the tips listed below, you can enjoy springtime sports without the nagging aches and pains.

Don’t Forget to Warm Up: Warming up before engaging in physical activity is something that many people forget to do. When it comes to stretching, aim to hold each muscle stretch for a minimum of thirty seconds. After you’ve completed your stretches, continue your warm-up with some jumping jacks. Alternatively, you could also do some walking or run in place for a short period of time. 

Wear The Right Equipment: A number of sports injuries can be blamed on faulty or inadequate sporting equipment. When playing an organized sport, always make sure to wear high quality shoes, helmets and padding, along with other necessary items. Needless to say, equipment that is old and worn out should be discarded. 

Don’t Overdo It: Sometimes, athletes get so into their sport that they simply push themselves too hard. As a result, the body’s muscles can become overworked and fatigued, potentially leading to injury. If you find yourself feeling tired and weary during any kind of physical activity, give yourself a rest. Doing so will also give you time to re-hydrate. 

Save Your Skin: One drawback to outdoor sports is the risk of sun burns. This is true even on overcast days, as the sun’s powerful UV rays have no problems plowing through clouds. Given this fact, try to wear sunscreen when spending hours outside, even if the sun is nowhere to be seen. 

Don’t Get Dehydrated: As the spring season progresses, athletes face a greater and greater threat from rising temperatures. Without sufficient hydration, strenuous outdoor physical activity could potentially cause heat exhaustion. Muscle cramps are often the first sign of heat exhaustion, which are often followed by profuse sweating, clammy skin and a general feeling of weakness. If not properly addressed, this condition may also cause the afflicted person to feel weak, nauseous and even faint. To prevent heat exhaustion, remember to drink water before, during and after outdoor physical activities.