Even when the temperature is close to freezing, we can’t seem to get enough of winter sports. Cool, winter air and clear, blue skies are the perfect ingredients for an afternoon filled with sports.

However, if you love to play sports a much as the next person, then you know that you can get hurt at any moment. A serious sports injury can bring your season to a speedy halt before you know it. If you want to stay active all winter long, be sure to keep our suggestions in mind while playing these sports.

1 – Curling

Anyone who has gone curling before knows that it is a fun and satisfying sport. However, if you aren’t careful, you can end up with a serious injury.

Before the game, make sure that you stretch as thoroughly as possible. This will keep your body limber and minimize the chances of you tearing or pulling a muscle.

Additionally, you need to stay hydrated while you curl. If you go too long without taking a water break, you can get dehydrated and have to sit out for the rest of the game.

If you have suffered an injury in the past, it is beneficial for you to perform any physio-related exercises that you know. This will strengthen your muscles and joints, allowing you to perform at your best throughout the match.

If you don’t know any exercises, don’t be afraid — you can find clinics that focus on physiotherapy at Yonge and Eglinton, among many other conveniently located areas.

2 – Hockey

There are several places where you can play a friendly game of hockey during the winter months. You and your friends can start an impromptu game of pick-up on a frozen pond or join an organized league.

However, while skating around, you need to be careful. You should always wear the proper hockey safety equipment like a helmet, shin guards and a jockstrap.

You also have to be mindful and aware of other players on the ice. If you don’t want to get into a collision, always look around before speeding towards the puck.

If you do get into a collision or take a serious body check, you should book an appointment at a multi-disciplinary health clinic. These clinics offer a wide variety of services including:

• Massage
• Chiropractic Care
• Acupuncture
• Custom Orthotics
• Osteopathy

3 – Skiing or Snowboarding

Nothing screams winter more than an afternoon of skiing or snowboarding. It’s the perfect pastime during a sunny, winter day. However, even if it’s just a casual trip down the slopes, you are always at risk of suffering an injury.

Before you start, inspect the bottom of your skis or snowboard. Look for imperfections like cracks or breaks. These can cause people to fall unexpectedly or seriously injure themselves.

Additionally, you need to know your limits. Don’t try to perform a trick or stunt if you aren’t confident in your ability to land it.

Regardless of what sport you’re playing, you can keep yourself and your teammates safe by remembering these simple pieces of advice this winter