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• Get a physical examination. It is important to see your doctor before participating in any sport. A patient history and physical exam are necessary in almost all high school and college sports; however, community sports and martial arts tend not to require such documentation. Cardiovascular, neurologic, and musculoskeletal problems should be thoroughly evaluated by a healthcare professional, such as a primary care doctor, before you start any training.
• Maintain fitness. Be sure you are in good physical condition when you begin martial arts training. Fatigue during training and competition often leads to poor technique and injury. Do not do an activity if you are too tired to do it safely. 
  If you are out of shape at the start of your training, gradually increase your activity level and slowly build up to a higher fitness level. It is essential to build your strength and endurance before trying complex martial arts techniques. Running, jumping rope, biking, and swimming are good cardiovascular activities to help improve your fitness level. Anaerobic exercise, such as strength training and plyometrics will also improve performance.
• Warm up. Always take time to warm up. Research studies show that cold muscles are more prone to injury. Warm up with jumping jacks, or running or walking in place for 3 to 5 minutes.
• Cool down and stretch. Stretching at the end of exercise is too often neglected because of busy schedules. Stretching can help reduce muscle soreness and keep muscles long and flexible. Be sure to stretch after each training practice to reduce your risk of injury.
• Hydrate. Even mild levels of dehydration can hurt athletic performance. If you have not had enough fluids, your body will not be able to effectively cool itself through sweat and evaporation. A general recommendation is to drink 24 ounces of non-caffeinated fluid 2 hours before exercise. Drinking an additional 8 ounces of water or sports drink right before you exercise is also helpful. While you are exercising, break for an 8-ounce cup of water every 20 minutes.

• Headgear is essential when sparring.
• Cups and protective waist belts add protection to the groin area.
• Use a mouthguard to protect your teeth, mouth, and tongue.
• If you wear glasses, use safety glasses or glass guards to protect your eyes.
• Wrap your hands with the appropriately sized wraps and with proper technique. Properly wrapped hands will feel secure. Wearing gloves when appropriate is also recommended.
• Proper footwear is important. On matted floors, avoid socks or footwear that may cause you to slip. In many cases, going barefoot provides the most stability. Talk to your coach or supervisor about which type of footwear would be best for your activity and skill level.

• Spotting (watching and monitoring) is essential. A coach or supervisor should spot participants during all sessions, especially when complex or challenging moves are being performed.
• Protecting yourself during a fall should be one of the first techniques you learn and perfect. Being thrown by an opponent at high speed or falling onto your neck or head can result in serious injury.
• Practice new techniques at half speed. It is also helpful to talk to your coach or supervisor before attempting a new move to ensure you understand how to safely execute it.
• Understand the dangers of performing submission holds incorrectly.
  • Know how much force may inflict injury.
  • Know your opponent's level of experience. Newer participants may not understand when they are in danger of injury.
  • When being held, recognize when you should tap out for your own safety.

• Understand which part(s) of your body are in danger with each specific move.
  • Arm Bar - elbow, forearm, shoulder
  • Triangle choke - throat, neck
  • Americana - shoulder, elbow
  • Kimura - shoulder, elbow
  • Heel hook (one of the most dangerous moves) - knee, ankle, foot
  • Guillotine - neck and throat
• In competitive martial arts in which weight classes are used, cutting weight may be a standard practice. If you are considering cutting weight, check with your doctor or a trained dietitian to determine a healthy way to safely lose weight.

Understand which parts of your body are in danger with each specific move.

• Practice in a well-padded area.
• Be aware of your surroundings while other participants are practicing to avoid collisions.

• Coaches, trainers, and other staff should be knowledgeable about first aid and be able to administer it for minor injuries, such as facial cuts, bruises, or minor strains and sprains.
• Be prepared for emergencies. All coaches, trainers, and other staff should have a plan to reach medical personnel for help with more significant injuries such as concussions, dislocations, contusions, sprains, abrasions, and fractures.

An injured player's symptoms must be completely gone before returning to activity. For example:

• In case of a joint problem, the participant must have no pain, no swelling, full range of motion, and normal strength.
• In case of concussion, the participant must have no symptoms at rest or with exercise and should be cleared by a qualified medical professional.