Fit for the Grümpelturnier
The risk of injury in fun soccer is high. Preparation therefore includes not only dribbling and goal-scoring training, but also targeted muscle building throughout the body.
While professional footballers still have to wait more than a month for the highlight of the year, for amateur footballers it starts today: The Grümpelturnier season begins. Every year, around 150,000 men and women play in one of the nationwide tournaments.
They try just as hard as their famous role models when dribbling, passing and shooting. In contrast to Ronaldo, Ibrahimovic and Co., however, they are often less fit. The biggest difference between club players and amateur footballers can be seen in their core strength: a trained core is very crucial, especially when playing football - it improves coordination and protects against injuries. In other words, a six-pack like Ronaldo's would help reduce the risk of injury at scrimmage tournaments.
In addition to regular training of the core muscles, the following tips will also help to ensure an accident-free Grümpelturnier season in 2016:
Preparation:
- Exercise not only the legs, but the whole body if possible.
- Taking time for a serious warm-up.
- No alcohol before or during the Grümpelturnier.
Equipment:
- Always wear shin guards when playing soccer - even during training.
- The best protection is provided by shin guards with ankle protection.
- Jogging shoes and casual shoes are not suitable for playing football.
Fair Play:
- Adhere to fair play rules and avoid reckless boarding.
- Respect for the opponents: their health must not be endangered either!
Would you like to know how high your risk of injury is before your first scrimmage? You can find out with Suva's soccer test: www.suva.ch/fussballtest.
