As a cold and rainy autumn approaches, a little common sense might be just what the doctor ordered.
The Bobcats are making everyday efforts to stay healthy in order to avoid the negative effects fall weather brings. And for athletes, preventative measures are the best medicine available.
With annual cold and flu outbreaks approaching, coach Stacy Strauss said staying healthy is ultimately the responsibility of her players.
A lot of that is on them to be sure they're budgeting their time well so they have ample time for rest and sleep and proper nutrition
she said.
From our end it's just a lot of reminders and our athletic training staff
as well
does a great job
when someone does come down with something
to get them in to see a doctor quickly so we can get medication and things like that so it doesn't spread.
Strauss said she instructs her team to stretch after physical activity. When the Bobcats go to the weight room following practice, they stretch before lifting and again upon returning to the locker room.
Another factor that can prevent cramps and pulled muscles is proper footwear, Strauss said. Screw-in cleats best suit wet conditions by maximizing traction and keeping field debris out of the spikes.
Some of it's just a little bit smart and using proper equipment as a way to prevent injury
Strauss said.
Of course, staying hydrated and well nourished are always focuses of the team, no matter the time of year. Ohio keeps Gatorade on the sidelines during matches and eats a team pregame meal before road contests.
They typically eat the same thing every pregame
Strauss said. It's usually a light sandwich
soups
salads ... something that's not too heavy but has a good amount of carbs and protein so they have energy to sustain them throughout the game.
Strauss said assistant coach Amy Switzer, who has a degree in exercise physiology, and a team nutritionist are other resources available to players.
They have people they can go to should questions come up
