Before moving onto how a high level of all round fitness is important in preventing injury, problems can be avoided by undertaking a pre-season physical examination and test. This allows the analysis and correction of individual factors leading to injury. The examination should include a physical examination as well as measurements of flexibility and strength. Past injuries must also be discussed and taken into account for when testing.

Training does play a large role in injury. Teams who train little but play many games or suddenly undertake harder training are more at risk than teams already having trained harder. More match practice seems to improve performance with fewer injuries. Also, incomplete rehabilitation after injury can lead to further problems.

Soccer requires both skill and fitness, the following factors all play a part in injury prevention:

Endurance: The greater the endurance levels of players, the better the resistance to fatigue. Tired players are more prone to mistakes and will be less efficient. This may lead to an increased chance of injury. Long-distance running for example is valuable in increasing endurance capacity.

Flexibility/mobility: How many times in a game do players have to stretch for a ball when tackling or controlling a loose pass ? Muscles are often stretched to their limit and joints placed under extreme stress. Evidence shows good levels of flexibility can offer protection against various muscles strains and tears.

Strength: Being stronger will help the player resist injury (along with good levels of flexibility and skill). Specific training programs need to be incorporated to improve body strength and players can be tested for muscle imbalances using isokinetic equipment.

Skills: Poor technique can lead to injury, a bad control then being off-balance and stretching to win the ball back is a common example. Frequent specific technical training will help.

Mental fitness: Factors such as motivation and confidence can play an important part. For example, over-motivated players can take risks and under-confident players may get caught out.

For more detailed information on all aspects of fitness training, go to our specialised section.

Children should be carefully monitored as the majority of soccer injuries do occur among younger players. Growth can affect their susceptibility to injury thus training adapted to their age and size must be employed.

Unfortunately female players appear to sustain many more injuries than male players. The menstrual cycle does play a part by increasing the risk of traumatic injuries. Also female athletes have increased bone fragility and are more at risk of fractures. Like, children, regular and correct screening is needed.

If you are already carrying or feel you may have an injury or illness, seek medical advice before continuing to play. Simple fitness testing should be conducted prior to competition to ensure fitness to play. Also, depending on health and fitness status, players should seek an expert medical opinion before undertaking hard physical exercise. Questions a coach can ask to his players or that the player should ask themselves are:

1. Do you feel a pain in your chest when you do physical exertions ? Has your doctor ever said that you have a heart condition and recommended that you should only do specific or no physical activity at all ?

2. Do you ever lose your balance because of dizziness or have you ever lost consciousness ?

3. Is your doctor currently prescribing drugs for blood pressure or a heart condition ?

4. Do you know of any particular reason why you should not undertake physical activity ?

NEVER be afraid to consult a doctor !

This article has covered the most important ways of preventing injury. However, common sense and fair-play as well can often prevail. Inadequacies in preparation and equipment can be avoided through the application of good advice and training methods. It is up to both the players and staff to above all ensure the safety and well-being of their fellow and opposition team members.

For further information on different types of injuries and their treatment click here.