Why Safety Matters in Physical Activities
Peer reviewed by Dr. Peter Rawlek, MD & Scott Rollo, PhD
Jamal was excited to play soccer during recess on a sunny afternoon. But the game started before he had time to stretch or tie his shoes properly. Just ten minutes later, he tripped, twisted his ankle, and had to sit out for the rest of the week. “I just wanted to play,” he said later, “but I wasn’t ready.”
Being active should feel fun and energizing—not rushed, unsafe, or stressful. Whether you’re in gym class, at after-school practice, or playing with friends, safety helps everyone move with more confidence, trust, and enjoyment. And it’s something we all help create.
What Safety Really Means
Safety isn’t just about avoiding injuries. It also means making sure people feel respected, prepared, and supported—both physically and emotionally.
Here’s what safety looks like:
Warming up together before a game starts.
Taking turns and paying attention to others around you.
Helping someone up when they fall—without blaming or teasing.
Following rules that protect everyone, not just the fastest or strongest.
When activities feel safe, more people join in, try new things, and feel proud no matter their skill level.
How We Stay Safe: Three Key Habits
1. Warm-Ups and Cool-Downs
Before playing, a short warm-up wakes up your muscles and gets your heart ready. Afterward, a cool-down helps your body relax and reduces soreness.
Think of warming up like getting ready for takeoff—it helps you perform better and avoid crashes.
2. Sportsmanship
Sportsmanship means being fair and respectful, even when things get intense. Cheer for teammates, follow the rules, and support others when they make mistakes.
Good sportsmanship turns losing into a chance to learn and grow.
3. Etiquette
Etiquette is the small, unspoken rules that keep activities running smoothly. This includes sharing equipment, waiting your turn, or being quiet when someone takes a shot.
It’s about noticing how your actions affect others.
Why Safety Matters for Everyone
When safety becomes a habit:
People feel more confident because they know they won’t get hurt or embarrassed.
Teams work better because players trust each other and stay focused.
The space feels welcoming so no one feels left out.
A safe place helps you challenge yourself and enjoy playing more.
What You Can Do to Help
Here are simple ways to keep games and activities safe:
Start with a warm-up. Even just 3–5 minutes helps your body get ready.
Follow the flow. Take turns, respect personal space, and watch what others are doing.
Be fair. Use kind words—even when the game is competitive.
Keep your emotions in check. It’s okay to want to win, but not at the cost of others’ fun.
Speak up kindly. If you see something unsafe, say something respectfully.
Reflect & Grow
How does your body feel after warming up or cooling down?
Have you ever felt unsafe or nervous during a game? What could have helped?
What’s one safety habit you can practice this week—in gym or with friends?
Safety isn’t just about avoiding injury. It’s about creating a place where everyone feels ready, respected, and encouraged to join in. When we all take care—both physically and emotionally—everyone gets more out of the game.
Next time you’re moving, ask yourself:
“Am I helping this activity feel safe and fair for everyone?”
Even small habits like stretching or sharing can make play better and safer for all.
References:
Shean, M., & Mander, D. (2020). Building emotional safety for students in school environments: Challenges and opportunities. Health and education interdependence: Thriving from birth to adulthood, 225-248.