Why Do People Break Their Arms in Arm Wrestling?

In arm wrestling, the objective is simple – to overpower your opponent by using sheer strength. However, this intense competition often leads to serious injuries, with one of the most common being a broken arm.

So why do people break their arms in arm wrestling? Let’s dive into the reasons behind these unfortunate accidents.

1. Excessive Force

Arm wrestling places tremendous strain on the muscles and bones of the arm.

When competitors apply excessive force while trying to overpower each other, it can lead to fractures in the bones of the forearm or upper arm. The ulna and radius bones are particularly susceptible to breaking due to the high pressure exerted on them during an intense match.

2. Incorrect Technique

Another reason for arm wrestling injuries is improper technique.

Inexperienced participants may not have a good understanding of how to position their arms and distribute force evenly, increasing the risk of injury. It’s important to maintain a balanced stance and keep the elbow at a safe angle during a match to minimize the chances of breaking an arm.

2.1 Placement of Elbow

The placement of the elbow plays a crucial role in preventing injuries during an arm wrestling match. If your elbow is positioned too far away from your body, it can create leverage against your forearm bone, making it susceptible to fractures when excessive force is applied by your opponent.

2.2 Wrist Alignment

The alignment of your wrist also influences the chances of breaking your arm in an arm wrestling contest. If your wrist is bent backward or sideways during a match, it puts additional stress on both your forearm bones and ligaments, increasing the risk of injury.

3. Lack of Warm-up

Before engaging in any physically demanding activity, including arm wrestling, it’s crucial to warm up your muscles and joints.

Failing to do so can increase the risk of breaking an arm or sustaining other injuries. Warm-up exercises help prepare your muscles and improve blood flow, making them more flexible and less prone to fractures.

4. Fatigue

As a match progresses, fatigue sets in, and participants may start to lose control over their technique, leading to potential injuries.

When tired, individuals are more likely to make sudden movements or use excessive force to compensate for their weakening muscles. This can put additional stress on the bones and lead to fractures.

5. Pre-existing Weaknesses

Sometimes, individuals may have pre-existing weaknesses in their bones or joints that make them more susceptible to injury during arm wrestling. Conditions like osteoporosis or previous injuries that haven’t fully healed can increase the chances of a fracture occurring.

Conclusion

In conclusion, people break their arms in arm wrestling due to a combination of factors such as excessive force, incorrect technique, lack of warm-up, fatigue, and pre-existing weaknesses. It’s important for participants to prioritize safety by using proper technique and warming up adequately before engaging in an arm wrestling match. Remember that while arm wrestling is a thrilling sport, it’s essential to prioritize your well-being and prevent unnecessary injuries.