How to Avoid Hurting Yourself as a PC Gamer

Gaming, or Esports as it is more commonly known now, has long been a pastime for many people of all ages. And while it can have socially negative connotations, gamers can develop a great many skills that will benefit them in the long run. Team building, problem-solving, dexterity, critical thinking are just a few essential skills required for gamers to make it to the end of the game and complete the challenge.

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However, serious gamers will know the issues concerning physical health when playing for more extended periods. Many dangers can present themselves to gamers despite its fairly innocuous setup. From not eating or drinking enough to missed sleep and lack of movement. But how can gamers prevent injuries? This post looks at some ways to avoid hurting yourself during gameplay.

Create an Ergonomic Setup

One of the first things gamers should consider is their setup, which will ensure they stay in a comfortable position for long periods. The chair must be positioned for those using a keyboard and mouse set up so that the keyboard and monitor are at eye level. This will prevent any neck or back pain from developing over time. In addition, your arm should be at a 90-degree angle, and your wrist should be straight when typing or playing games with a mouse. Pay attention to the Keycaps on your keyboard, as different styles might be more effortless for you to use for gameplay than general typing. Your feet should also have access to the ground to help avoid fatigue from sitting too long.

If you’re not gaming on a PC, you may need to adjust your setup for more comfort. For example, when gaming on consoles, it’s essential to use an accessory like a controller stand and ensure that your console is at the height of your eyesight. TV stands can also come in handy for extra storage (and some models can come equipped with shelving).

Listen To Your Body

Listen to your body. If you’re tired and need a break, take it. That’s the only way to avoid injuries. When you’re playing for hours, your eyes will tire, your hands will cramp, and your spine will ache. There are many reasons gamers need to listen to their bodies when playing games. As the author mentioned, they may not have eaten or drunk enough fluids because of concentrating on the game. They may also be too tired from not getting enough sleep because of staying up late to play games. Or they might be sitting in an awkward position with poor posture from neglecting physical activity to play video games. Listening to your body is the best way for gamers to avoid hurting themselves by taking necessary breaks and sitting comfortably while playing.

Pay Attention to Posture

Posture is one of the most fundamental aspects of staying healthy while playing. The way you sit or stand will directly impact your physical health, so it’s essential to pay attention to your posture. Make sure to maintain a straight back, and avoid leaning forward or sitting with hunched shoulders. Try stretching your legs every hour or two to relieve tension in your back and neck. Remember to take breaks from gaming, too, as sitting for extended periods can result in muscle cramps and fatigue.

Make sure not to slouch! Sitting with a straight back will help you avoid long-term injuries like chronic back pain that could result from hunching over the keyboard and mouse all day. By stretching your legs occasionally, you can ease tension in your spine, neck, and shoulders. 

Check Your Wrist Position

One way to avoid injury when playing games is to check your wrist position.

Many gamers will situate their mouse on the edge of their desk and then use the palm of their hand to control the movement. This type of position can cause many problems, including carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, and tendonitis in the fingers. If you want to avoid any injuries from happening, try sitting back in your chair and using a mouse pad that is large enough for both hands.

Take Breaks

Taking a break is one of the most obvious steps when playing games for too long. If you’re playing a game that requires movement, such as first-person shooters or sports games, taking breaks will provide you with more energy and motivation to keep playing. By taking a break every 20-30 minutes, you’ll give your body a chance to rest while still maintaining the initiative. Taking breaks can also allow gamers to stretch before continuing gameplay.

To maximise the benefits of taking breaks, try taking short walks instead of sitting down. The walk will serve as a reminder for your muscles that they need movement and provide an opportunity to get some fresh air outside.

Stay Hydrated

The first and most important thing that gamers should do is stay hydrated. This can be done by making sure you are drinking plenty of water during the day and before, during, and after gaming sessions. Drinking a lot of water will help with your hydration needs and keep your skin from drying out or feeling tight.

Drinking plenty of water will also prevent headaches, dizziness, and other issues that arise when you do not have enough fluids in your body.

Being at your best means taking care of your body to allow it to perform as you need to. Water is essential for concentration and improved mental clarity and focuses, all of which you need when gaming. And being properly hydrated is critical. The trick is to remember that if you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated, and it is a game of playing catch up. Keep water and other drinks to hand and drink regularly through your day and gameplay to avoid thirst and help you maintain the focus you need.

Taking small but significant steps when participating in esports can help you make sure you are doing any serious damage to your body and allow you to improve your gameplay over time safely.