Playing hockey can be one of the most exciting experiences in the world. Hockey is a competitive sport that is going to keep you on your toes at all times. Just remember that hockey can be very dangerous. If you do not prepare, there is a good chance that you’re going to get in over your head. Then, you’re going to get yourself hurt. This is why it is absolutely vital to learn about ice safety. Doing so will allow you to have a good time and remain safe out there on the ice. Within this guide, you’ll learn more about ice safety.
Wear A Helmet
There is always a chance that you’re going to fall while on the ice. Remember that the ice is very hard and a fall could lead to a concussion. With that being said, anyone who intends to lace up the skates and get on the ice needs to wear a good helmet. Failing to do so could result in serious problems in the near future. It is highly recommended that you buy a helmet that has been approved by the Hockey Equipment Certification Council. Make sure that the helmet fits snuggly too!
Choosing Good Skates
While you’re at it, you’ll also want to find a good pair of skates. Wearing the wrong pair can really take a toll on your feet. They’ll cause blisters and other issues. To ensure that you’re going to be safe and comfortable at all times, you need to invest in the best hockey skates that you can find. That will make a world of difference in the long.
Mouthguard
Remember that the puck is going to be flying down the ice very quickly. There is always a chance that it is going to smack you in the mouth. You may also be hit in the face by an elbow. Either way, you need to make sure that your mouth is protected and there is where a good mouthpiece enters the picture. A mouth piece will protect your teeth. It can also help decrease the likelihood of jaw injuries.
Stretching
If you do not properly prepare for the game, there is a chance that you’re going to overdo it and hurt yourself. This is why you need to make sure that you stretch before the game begins. This will help you warm up and prepare your muscles for the strenuous activity ahead. Remember to stretch the hips, groin, back, torso and the hamstrings. Do this and the risks of injury will be decreased to some degree.
Supervision
Sports can get pretty heated. With this in mind, you need to make sure that your games are going to be supervised at all times. After all, you don’t want your first game to turn into an all out brawl. Make sure that there are refs and supervisors around to monitor the action. This is vitally important, if you’re going to be playing in a youth or minor league. Someone needs to be there to control the action and prevent things from getting out of hand.