The javelin is over 400,000 years old. This long, pointed stick was first used as a weapon before it became an integral event in the Olympic Games. Though even as a sport, it can still cause damage today.

Javelin throwers can become injured because they often repeat the same action many times during training or competitions. There is especially a risk of elbow injury if athletes bend their arms the wrong way when they throw the javelin. As with all sports, it’s important to warm up properly before practicing the javelin.

For people considering taking up this sport, here are some suggestions for preventing injury:

1. Practice with a professional coach. It’s essential to develop a good technique from the beginning.

2. Develop healthy eating habits and a good diet with lots of fruit, vegetables, and protein (chicken or fish). Don’t skip breakfast on the day of the competition.

3. When competing ___________sports events, plan the day properly. Competitions can begin ____________the morning, so start your warm up when you get up. Do exercises for your arms, legs, back, and neck before you put your gym clothes and go the stadium.

4. It’s important for athletes to keep their body temperatures up, so after warming up, it’s best to wear a tracksuit while waiting for the event to begin. Sometimes the different parts of the competitions take place at different times. In between, keep your throwing arm warm. For example, wrap a towel around it while you’re waiting.

5. After the competition, many athletes want to relax and hang out with their friends, but don’t finish the competition without cooling down first. Put ice on the throwing arm for about a quarter of an hour. This prevents injuries after the event.

6. Finally, don’t practice too much. Only Olympic athletes need to practice every day. Sports are for fun. Just enjoy the event.