3 safety rules to prevent sports injury

by Laurence MacNaughton

Rule #1: Toss your worn-out shoes.

Think you can dust off last year’s shoes and jump right back into the game? Think again.

Old, worn-out shoes can be as bad for you as wearing the wrong shoes. Here’s how to tell if it’s time to replace them:

• Can you remember when and where you bought these shoes? If not, they’re probably too old.

• Take a good look at the midsole. If it’s wrinkly, that indicates that the shoes are worn out.

• After you wear your shoes, do you experience sore knees or achy feet the next day? Pain or injury could be sign that you need new shoes.

But why wait until it hurts? Right now, Gander Mountain is having a Footwear Clearance Event, with up to 40% off favorite brands.

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You can also get free shipping on orders over $50 from Overton’s (plus earn Cash Back from ShopAtHome.com.) Take a good look at their sale prices on select running shoes for women and men.

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Rule #2: Keep surfaces and gear clean.

Cleaning up locker rooms and equipment before and after use can prevent the spread of disease. Let’s face it — by the time you’re done with your sports gear, it’s covered in germs. Don’t let them multiply and spread.

Every year, the CDC reports more than 10,000 cases of Group A Strep infections (commonly called the “flesh eating bacteria”). As disgusting as that sounds, it gets worse: such infections can sometimes be fatal.

The lesson is clear: Don’t let infectious germs grow on your gear.

The traditional way to clean is with bleach: mix 3/4 cup bleach with one gallon of water and apply to the cleaned surface for 5 minutes before rinsing and drying. Unfortunately, bleach can ruin your colored fabrics.

We prefer Clear Gear Spray, which cleans, disinfects and deodorizes in one easy step. It also comes in a variety of sizes, including spray bottles small enough to store in your gym bag or locker.

Get this ShopAtHome.com exclusive offer: 10% off any Order, plus 3% Cash Back on Clear Gear Spray

Rule #3: Don’t pay full price.

Don’t let your bank account get injured, either. A new season means new equipment, and if you want to get the best price, it pays to use every discount you can find.

ShopAtHome.com has coupons for your favorite stores all in one convenient place. Plus, you get the best Cash Back rewards online, guaranteed.

And you can save even more with hundreds of coupons (including free shipping), and Cash Back rewards of up to 6% at ShopAtHome.com’s Coupon Madness special event.

(Just for fun: while you’re at it, click here to get your free Printable March Madness Bracket.)

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About Laurence MacNaughton

Laurence MacNaughton is an author, story editor and copywriter who specializes in creating upbeat, informative content that connects. His writing has appeared in Writers' Journal, Pyramid Magazine, SF Signal and other publications. Send an email or ping him on Google+.