to perform those skills safely.
Listening to Pain Can Prevent Bigger Problems
One of the most important lessons for young athletes is learning the difference between normal training discomfort and warning signs of injury.
Some athletes are reluctant to tell their coach or parents that something hurts.
They may worry about missing practice.
They may fear losing their position on a team.
They may believe that serious athletes are supposed to “push through” pain.
That mindset can be dangerous.
U.S. Figure Skating’s sports medicine guidance has identified warning signs such as persistent soreness, swelling, tenderness, pain that returns during skating and pain that continues into the following morning.
An athlete should never feel ashamed about reporting pain.
Speaking up early can sometimes prevent a minor problem from becoming a major one.
Head Injuries Deserve Immediate Attention
Among the most concerning injuries in skating are those involving the head.
A
