Aging Awarness

Statistically, it is proven that older athletes are much more likely to injure themselves than younger athletes today who are doing the same sport. However, looking at a more positive note, it has been found that even when accounting for their likelihood of injury, older athletes tend to be physically better off than the average person of their same age. For all athletes, a careful period dedicated to warming-up consisting of stretching and balance is key to reducing the chance of injury.

Balance is pivotal when doing any kind of physical activity, especially older athletes. Mainly because they are more susceptible to injuring themselves that will have long term effects for the rest of their life. This includes hematomas, artificial ligament replacements and many other serious consequences. Also another important factor is the sweat production and allowing the body to cool down and to increase blood flow to the skin. Blood flow to the skin in older, fit athletes is lower than in younger athletes. The lower blood flow associated with increasing age appears to be independent of hydration state. It also appears that, although sweat-gland recruitment is similar to that of younger athletes, older athletes produce less sweat per gland. Older athletes should be aware of the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. They should also be aware that most heat exhaustion occurs before heat acclimatization. All in all, athletes should be careful of higher intense workouts when being acclimated to a new environment until their body is fully capable of performing.