Football cramps are a mainstay of August and September football games. Their cause remains a mystery to scientists. There are plenty of hypothesis, and some new (circa 2002) ideas about their causes.
AP Biology and anatomy students, read through and identify the new ideas and how they fit in with the maintenance of homeostasis. All students can read through and propose ideas for studying these cramps. What conditions would be necessary? How valid would any study be? What could coaches do to avoid these cramps during the early season games.
I believe it is easy for football players to cramp up because of homeostasis. Homeostasis means to regulate internal conditions such as body temperature. Ways our bodies cope with this issue is we sweat to cool off and we shiver to produce heat. The article states dehydration causes cramping. As the players work hard they are sweating a lot and need to keep themselves hydrated for often otherwise will most likely end up cramping. The article states body weight and wronng footwear can cause cramping as well, so therefore each player needs to stay fit and have correct shoes. Ways to help cramps are to strech more often.
ReplyDeleteTaylor Harty
AP Bio
I agree with Taylor that adequate acknowledgement of proper shoes and equipment are needed. I also remember Mr Nollen talking about coaches using the monitors to keep track of dehydration in the players on the field don't get dehydrated and don't realize it. A steadily progressive warmup would be needed to make the muscles warm, including extensive stretches. In addition, a cooldown needs to be done, isolating muscles prone to cramping and more stretches. As an athelete, I can honestly say that cooldowns are, if actually done, aren't taken as seriously as they should be because us athletes are ready to leave the gym. Also, training should be done in pre-season to have muscles in shape so the harsh workouts during the season aren't a shock to the muscles.
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