As well as being a great form of physical activity, lawn bowls is also a wonderful social activity. It's great for meeting new people and making new friends. And equally as good for developing skills and coordination at ALL ages.

However, as with all sports, it is important to know how to prevent injury. The following hints and tips come from Better health Victoria.

Risk factors for lawn bowls injuries

Some of the factors that can increase your risk of injury include:

• Failure to warm up and cool down – warming up and cooling down is extremely important to reduce the risk of muscle and joint injuries.

• Incorrect technique – using the correct swinging action when bowling is an important factor in preventing injury. Poor delivery or balance, or incorrect grip of the bowl can lead to injury.

• Time spent playing – the repetitive movements associated with bowling can be associated with injury. Make sure you rest between games.

• Previous injury – lawn bowls can aggravate existing injury, so make sure any injuries are fully rehabilitated before you play.

Health and safety advice for lawn bowls

• Good preparation is important. Warm up and stretch before play to improve joint range of movement, promote elasticity of tendons and ligaments, and prevent muscular strain.

• Cool down after play to prevent stiffness and cardiovascular complications.

• Be SunSmart – wear sun-protective clothing, use SPF30+ sunscreen and lip balm, wear an appropriate hat, seek shade where possible and wear sunglasses.

• Avoid playing lawn bowls in extreme weather conditions.

• Drink water before, during and after activity to keep hydrated.

Good technique and practices

• Use correct technique – poor delivery or balance, or incorrect grip of the bowl can lead to injury.

• Undertake balance training and exercises to strengthen your legs, back and neck to help prevent falls.

• Take adequate rest between games.

If a bowling injury occurs

• Stop immediately to help prevent any further damage.

• Seek first aid or prompt medical treatment of an injury. This is important for all injured players, no matter how severe (or seemingly minor) the injury is. At least one trained first aid person should be on duty at all bowls events.

• Make sure the bowls club has a well-stocked first aid kit, a telephone and emergency contact numbers on display.

• Don’t resume playing until you are completely recovered from any injury.

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