Playing soccer with friends? Experts offer recommendations to stay safe on the field

With the World Cup capturing national attention, casual soccer matches, or 'picaditos,' are surging in popularity across Argentina, becoming a common weekend and mid-week activity for many.

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Soccer generates intense cardiovascular effort.

However, health professionals are cautioning that these recreational games carry significant physical demands that are often underestimated. Playing without adequate preparation, sufficient hydration, or consistent training throughout the week can elevate the risk of injuries and potentially lead to serious cardiovascular issues.

Dr. Eliana Filosa, from the Cardiology Service at Hospital Universitario Austral, emphasizes the cardiovascular intensity of soccer. She strongly advises individuals over 35 or 40 with risk factors, such as hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, or experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or palpitations, to undergo a medical check-up before participating.

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If you are over 35-40 years old and have any risk factors (such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, you smoke or feel chest pain, disproportionate shortness of breath, dizziness, or palpitations), get a medical check-up before playing.

Beyond cardiovascular health, nutrition and hydration are crucial for performance and recovery. Nutritionist Lucía Amorós from Hospital Universitario Austral highlights their role in maintaining energy levels and aiding muscle adaptation to physical exertion. Post-game, consuming combinations like yogurt with cereal can aid protein synthesis, muscle growth, and recovery.

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Nutrition and hydration are pillars for sustaining energy, muscle recovery, and supporting adaptation to training.