Sports-related injuries are a risk for all athletes at all levels.

As spring training programs open up for baseball and softball athletes, there are preventative strategies that should be incorporated into a training routine to maintain overall health. In Major League Baseball, injury rates have increased since the COVID-19 pandemic started, due to adjusted or otherwise shortened training and playing seasons. As we enter another year of training after the start of the pandemic, here’s 5 tips for injury prevention in baseball and softball players.

  • Check Equipment

    This is important, especially at the start of each season. Check to be sure that your personal equipment, shoes, cleats, etc are in good condition to help prevent you from injury. Replace anything that is worn out or used heavily for a year or two. It’s also important to check your team’s equipment, including training weights or resistance bands, helmets and other items. Brain injuries account for 6% of all baseball-related injuries, so ensuring that your helmet has the appropriate padding, isn’t cracked or dented and fits correctly is important.

  • Warm Up & Cool Down

Proper warming and cooling of the muscles is essential for anyone, whether working out or participating in sports. By easing into, and out of your activity, your muscles remain loose and flexible, making the likelihood of pulled muscles or injuries less likely when swinging a bat, sprinting to a base or sliding home. Use the StrechCordz® Stretch and Mobility Strap to maintain your muscle health. Stretch your hamstrings, quadriceps, glutes with this dual-ended tool.

  • Maintain Activity Levels

Long periods of inactivity can cause muscles to shorten, tighten and lose strength. Even in the off season, or in long periods between games, try strength building routines with cardio (but always check with your doctor before embarking on a new fitness routine first!) The Medicordz® Wall Mount Kit is a versatile tool to work those important rotator cuff muscles used to pitch or throw a ball while also building strength in the upper and lower body.

  • Rotate Playing Positions

Overuse is a common reason for injuries in pitchers and catchers, with the repetitive motions of pitching a ball, or the physical body positioning of a catcher. By rotating positions even in training exercises, players can use and activate different muscle groups, preventing over-extension and exhaustion.

  • Incorporate Agility Work

Knee injuries and ACL tears are preventable with proper conditioning. Reaction time training, in addition to agility work can ready the muscles for quick changes in direction or speed. Try the Turfcordz® Ankle Cordz for resistance-based exercises that will challenge your muscles and keep you light on your feet.

Sports injuries are not completely unavoidable, however with the proper training and precautions they can become less likely. As always, we recommend checking with a doctor or medical professional, especially as it relates to injuries and recovery. Shop the full line of premium resistance products on our website, at NZCordz.com