Take time off. Give your body time to recover by having at least 1 day off per week and at least 1 month off per year from training for a particular sport.

Wear the right gear. Wear appropriate and properly fit protective equipment such as pads, helmets, mouthpieces, face guards, protective cups and eyewear.

Strengthen muscles. Do conditioning exercises during practice to strengthen muscles used in play.

Increase flexibility. Incorporate stretching in your daily fitness plan and do stretching exercises after games or practice to increase flexibility.

Play safe. Observe strict rules against headfirst sliding (baseball and softball) and spearing (football).

Stop the activity if it hurts. Don't play or exercise if you are in pain.

Take breaks. Rest during practice and games to reduce injuries and prevent heat illness.

Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid dehydration by drinking before, during and after exercise. During high heat/humidity periods, decrease or stop practices or games and wear light clothing.