How Do Football Players Recover After Games?
Football is an exhilarating sport for spectators and players alike. The physical nature of the game requires players to keep their bodies in top shape to avoid injuries. Even with extensive training and preparation, players are left physically exhausted at the end of a game.
Football is an exhilarating sport for spectators and players alike. The physical nature of the game requires players to keep their bodies in top shape to avoid injuries. Even with extensive training and preparation, players are left physically exhausted at the end of a game. Individuals must take the proper steps toward replenishing and repairing their bodies to recover their strength and stamina for the next performance.
Replenishing Fluids
During the course of a football game, players lose valuable fluids that keep their bodies functioning properly. The physical exertion required to perform on the field often leaves players dehydrated at the end of a game. It is important that individuals replace the fluids lost during a game by drinking plenty of water in the hours immediately following a game. In addition, essential electrolytes are also depleted and must be replaced to help retain fluids in the body. Various sports drinks include electrolytes in their formula and are a convenient way to replenish these nutrients.
Eating Right
Football players burn a massive amount of calories through physical exertion during a game. Players should eat meals high in protein and complex carbohydrates after the game. The valuable nutrients and calories found in foods that include lean meat, nuts, fish and whole grains give the body the building blocks it needs to repair damaged muscle tissue and replace lost nutrients.
Nursing Strained Muscles
Even the best conditioned athletes suffer form muscle strains due to overuse during a football game. Strained muscles should be treated by applying ice for 20 minutes every hour while awake. Ice helps to reduce pain and swelling associated with muscle strains. Once the swelling has subsided, heat may be used to loosen tight muscles and reduce pain. Never apply ice or heat directly to bare skin; always place a cloth or towel between the skin and application. Aspirin and ibuprofen are effective anti-inflammatory agents and should be taken as needed after a game.
Adequate Rest
It is essential for players recovering from a football game to get adequate rest. Avoid strenuous activities, especially those that use muscle groups that are sore. Getting a good night's sleep is an important part of recovery for football players. During the night, growth hormone is released from the pituitary gland in the brain. Growth hormone stimulates muscle growth and repair, and helps athletes recover from a tough game. Adequate sleep also helps athletes recover mental sharpness that diminishes with fatigue.