Dsalita Strongmen are athletes who participate in strength-based competitions that involve lifting heavy weights, pulling vehicles, and performing various other physical tasks. To protect themselves from potential injuries, strongmen often wear mouthguards. In this article, we will explore the reasons why strongmen wear mouthguards from various perspectives.
Protection against Dental Injuries
One of the primary reasons strongmen wear mouthguards is to protect their teeth from potential injuries. During strongman competitions, athletes often lift heavy weights or perform strenuous activities that can result in accidental impacts to the face. A mouthguard acts as a cushion, absorbing the impact and reducing the risk of dental fractures or dislodgement.
Mouthguards are especially crucial during events like the log press or the farmer’s walk, where the strongman may lose control of the weight and accidentally hit themselves in the face. By wearing a mouthguard, they can minimize the risk of dental injuries and maintain their oral health.
Prevention of Jaw Injuries
Aside from protecting the teeth, mouthguards also play a significant role in preventing jaw injuries. The intense physical exertion involved in strongman competitions can lead to involuntary teeth grinding or clenching, which can strain the jaw muscles and joints. A mouthguard helps to distribute the forces evenly across the jaw, reducing the risk of jaw fractures or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
Moreover, mouthguards can act as shock absorbers, reducing the impact on the jaw during heavy lifts or movements. This can help prevent conditions like jaw dislocation or fractures that could result from excessive strain or sudden impacts.
Protection against Concussions
Concussions are a common concern in sports that involve physical contact or high-impact movements. While strongman competitions may not involve direct blows to the head, the risk of concussions still exists due to the nature of the sport. A mouthguard can help reduce the risk of concussions by absorbing and dispersing the impact forces that reach the jaw and head.
During events like the atlas stones or tire flips, strongmen often exert significant force and may accidentally hit their heads with the weights or equipment. Wearing a mouthguard adds an extra layer of protection, reducing the chances of concussions or other head injuries.
Improved Breathing
Another advantage of wearing a mouthguard is improved breathing. Strongmen often perform physically demanding tasks that require a constant supply of oxygen. However, the intense exertion can cause the jaw to clench, leading to restricted airflow through the nose. A mouthguard helps to keep the jaw in a relaxed position, allowing for better airflow and improved oxygen intake.
By ensuring sufficient oxygen supply, strongmen can enhance their endurance and overall performance during competitions.
Enhanced Performance and Focus
Wearing a mouthguard can also contribute to enhanced performance and focus. Research suggests that the act of biting down on a mouthguard can activate the muscles in the jaw and face, leading to increased overall muscle activation throughout the body.
Additionally, the presence of a mouthguard can provide a psychological boost to the strongman. It serves as a reminder of the need to maintain proper form and technique, leading to improved focus and concentration during lifts and movements.
Prevention of Soft Tissue Injuries
Mouthguards not only protect the teeth and jaw but also help prevent soft tissue injuries. The inner lining of the mouth, including the lips, cheeks, and tongue, can be vulnerable to accidental bites or cuts during intense physical activities.
A mouthguard acts as a barrier between the teeth and the soft tissues, reducing the risk of lacerations or other injuries. This is particularly important during events like the car deadlift or the yoke walk, where strongmen may experience sudden movements that could cause accidental bites or cuts.
Conclusion
Wearing a mouthguard is essential for strongmen to protect their teeth, jaw, and overall oral health. It provides a cushion against impacts, prevents dental and jaw injuries, reduces the risk of concussions, improves breathing, enhances performance and focus, and prevents soft tissue injuries. By prioritizing their safety and well-being, strongmen can continue to excel in their sport while minimizing the risk of potential injuries.
