How do I get back into Football (Soccer) after having not played for years?

[Anonymous]

Due to ankle/ligament injuries in the past (Long story) I stopped playing football (soccer) when I was say... 10? maybe. Well anyways, very young. Now I'm 17 and I was thinking of taking it up again. I always loved the sport and always wanted to start playing again, but my dad said with my injuries he would rather not.

I was really good when I was young and always enjoyed it. But then kinda got fucked over with my ankles. I'm planning on seeing a doctor to try and figure what is wrong with them, because the doctors I have seen don't have any idea. (There's a bigger background problem)

Anyways, I just wanted to know what I could do to get back into the sport?

[NearlyNapping]

It sounds to me like you need to get your ankle / ligament fixed. If you keep playing you could end up making it worse, maybe do permanent injury. If you can't fix it, then at least find out what your limits are.

Try increasing your activity level and see how your body responds. Take it a little at a time. And don't ignore it if your ankle gives you problems. Football takes a lot of stamina. You'll have to ease into it until you get into better shape. That will give you a chance to evaluate your ankle and see how it responds.

You need to look after yourself long term though. It's not worth a lifetime of pain for a little time playing football. I've been in pain my entire life because of injuries. You don't want to go through that. It's not worth the price.

On the other hand, you need exercise to maintain good health. If you do nothing at all because of your ankle, then your overall health will suffer. You need to find the right balance. You need to find what your body can handle, but be honest with yourself and learn your limits. Listen to your body, and listen honestly.