Question

Two of the best players on a middle-school soccer team just showed up 15 minutes late for a match. They want to go out on the field immediately, but the coach insists that they warm up and do stretches before joining the game. Which of the following is the best explanation the coach can give these players about warming up before entering the game?

a) Warm-ups increase muscle strength.
b) Warm-ups prevent dehydration.
c) Warm-ups improve cardiovascular endurance.
d) Warm-ups enhance flexibility and reduce the risk of injury.

Answer 1

Warming up before a soccer match is crucial because it enhances flexibility and reduces the risk of muscle and tendon injuries by preparing the body for increased physical activity.

Step-by-step explanation:

The best explanation the coach can give to the players about warming up before entering the soccer game is that warm-ups enhance flexibility and reduce the risk of injury (option d). Warming up is essential as it prepares the muscles for increased activity by slowly raising the temperature and blood flow to the muscles, which in turn prevents muscle injuries and strains. Stretches, as part of a warm-up, also help to avoid the risk of pulling a tendon, which can cause pain and require an extended period of immobilization to heal.

Additionally, warming up increases the heart rate, which better prepares the cardiovascular system for the vigorous activity to come, and it helps improve the overall balance and effectiveness of the start-offs in competitive sports like soccer and swimming.