Do you love playing soccer but have asthma? You can still play! In this article, we will discuss how to play soccer with asthma and how to make sure that you are safe while doing so. We will also provide tips on how to stay healthy while playing soccer. Playing soccer is a great way to get exercise and have fun, and you don’t have to let asthma keep you from doing what you love!
7 Tips on How to Play Soccer With Asthma
Talk to your doctor
If you have asthma, it is important to talk to your doctor before playing soccer. Your doctor will be able to tell you how to best manage your asthma and what precautions to take while playing. They may also advise you on how much exercise you should do and what types of exercises are best for you.
Don’t try to play soccer without talking to your doctor first! A doctor’s visit is vital to keeping you safe while playing soccer with asthma.
Get in shape before you start
Playing soccer is a great way to get exercise, but it is also a very demanding sport. If you are not physically prepared for the demands of the sport, you may be putting yourself at risk for an asthma attack.
Make sure that you are in shape before you start playing soccer. By getting in shape I mean preparing yourself a few (5-10) days before you start playing. You can do this by gradually increasing your activity level (Every day) and doing some asthma-specific exercises so you can get used to it. These exercises will help you build up your endurance and better prepare your lungs for the demands of soccer.
Take your medication
You should carry medication with your self on the soccer field. If you are taking medication for your asthma, make sure to take it as prescribed. If your asthma flares up, take your medication right away and follow your doctor’s instructions.
Do not try to play through an asthma attack! Doing so can be very dangerous. If you have an asthma attack, stop playing and take your medication. Once your asthma is under control, you can start playing again.
Stay hydrated
It is important to stay hydrated when playing soccer, especially if you are asthmatic. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after playing. This will help keep your airways clear and help prevent an asthma attack.
Make sure you carry water with you on the soccer field and take a break to drink it often. It is also a good idea to avoid drinking sugary drinks like soda, as they can make asthma symptoms worse.
Warm-up
Before and after playing soccer, it is important to warm up. This is especially true if you have asthma. Warming up helps to prepare your lungs for exercise and prevents asthma.
This will help loosen up your muscles and reduce the risk of an asthma attack on the field. A few minutes of light exercise followed by a few minutes of stretching is all you need.
Take breaks
If you start feeling short of breath or begin coughing excessively, take a break from playing soccer. This is a sign that your asthma is flaring up and that you need to rest. Continuing to play could lead to an asthma attack.
Make sure to take a break in a safe place, away from the soccer field. Once you have caught your breath and taken your medication, you can rejoin the game. So listen to your body and If you are feeling short of breath, have a cough, or feel tired, take a break.
Use an inhaler
You must keep an inhaler in your bag at all times while playing soccer. If you start to feel short of breath, use your inhaler right away.
If you have an inhaler, use it as prescribed by your doctor. An inhaler can help open up your airways and prevent an asthma attack.
Avoid triggers
Certain things can trigger an asthma attack, such as smoke, pollen, or pets. Try to avoid exposure to these triggers when possible. If there is a particular trigger that you can’t avoid, make sure to carry your medication with you just in case.
You should know your body very well and you should know what are the things that can trigger an asthma attack. But, if you are not sure, avoid common things that can trigger an asthma attack like allergies, pollens, breathing in some chemicals, and acid reflux but it is always better to be safe than sorry and carry your medication with you just in case.
Avoid playing in hot weather
Hot weather can make asthma symptoms worse. If it is hot outside, try to stay in the shade as much as possible and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. If possible, avoid playing soccer in hot weather altogether.
Play with understanding teammates and coach and make sure your teammates and coach are aware that you have asthma. This way, they will be more understanding if you need to take a break or use your inhaler during the game.
Pace yourself – don’t overdo
Soccer is a very intense sport and can be tough on your lungs. If you have asthma, it is important to pace yourself and not overdo it. Don’t try to run too hard or play for too long.
Start off slow and gradually increase your intensity as you warm up. And if you start to feel short of breath during the game, take a break.
Can asthma kids play soccer?
Yes, asthma kids can play soccer as long as they take the necessary precautions to prevent an asthma attack. This includes staying hydrated, warming up properly, and taking breaks if necessary. If your child has an inhaler, make sure they bring it with them to the soccer field.
How does asthma affect soccer performance?
Asthma can have a significant impact on a soccer player’s performance. It can cause shortness of breath, coughing, and a feeling of fatigue. This can make it difficult to run or play soccer for an extended period of time.
As a soccer player, you should have the stamina to run for at least 90 minutes consistently. If you have asthma (not under control) you won’t be able to play soccer or perform your best.
Famous soccer players with Asthama
Former English soccer legends, David Bachkem and Frank Lampard suffer from asthma. A picture of him using an inhaler at the 2009 MLS Cup revealed that he had the condition. This was the time when he was playing for Los Angeles or LA Galaxy.
Conclusion
If you are an asthma patient and you love playing soccer, you should know how to play soccer with asthma. You shouldn’t stop playing your favorite game because of a small problem. Asthma can’t be cured but as long as you can keep it controlled you can play soccer.
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