How to Survive Football Practice

Football is a competitive contact sport requiring daily practice sessions.

A popular sport played both in schools and as a profession, football is a highly competitive and physically demanding activity that requires dedication, commitment, teamwork and athletic ability. While football is often played in informal settings for fun, organized football teams must practice regularly to improve individual athletic abilities and promote successful teamwork. Football practice consists of exercise activities, such as running drills, push-ups and sit-ups. Football players also practice plays to perfect each move before a game.

Things You'll Need

• Safety gear
• Fluids

Instructions

1. Understand the rules. If you have never played football before, read a book, website or handbook on football. While it is possible to just figure things out as you go along, you will perform better at practices if you are familiar with the rules and regulations surrounding the game.

2. Talk to your coach before practice about any health conditions you have, including asthma, allergies, heart murmurs or blood clotting disorders. While these conditions may not prevent you from playing, your coach should be aware of any problems in case he needs to administer emergency first aid.

3. Wear your safety gear. Protective gear is designed to prevent painful, and sometimes permanent, injuries. Wear your gear at every practice and game, and regularly inspect each item to ensure it is free from cracks or tears.

4. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, especially during hot-weather practices. Drink water or a sports drink before, during and after you practice.

5. Take a break if you begin to feel tired or overheated. Heat exhaustion frequently strikes athletes who exercise for long periods of time in extremely warm weather. If you begin to feel faint, dizzy or nauseous, immediately tell your coach and take a rest.

6. Maintain a positive attitude. While football is a competitive sport and winning games is important to your success as a football player, remember the reasons you began playing football and try to have fun. During long, hot practices it may be difficult to remain upbeat, but continue to persevere and try your best.

References

• National Football League Tackle Football: What Makes A Good Assistant Coach?
• Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh: Football
• Gatorade Sports Science Institute: Preventing Heat Illness