Health, Safety and Lifestyle
What you must know
This domain links physical activity, lifestyle choices and safety.
Know the benefits of exercise: stronger heart and lungs, healthy body composition, stronger bones, better sleep and mood, reduced risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and obesity. Know the components of a healthy lifestyle: balanced diet, hydration, adequate sleep, regular activity, avoiding tobacco, alcohol and drugs.
Understand nutrition: carbohydrates (energy), proteins (growth and repair), fats (energy and insulation), vitamins and minerals (protection and regulation), fibre (digestion) and water (hydration). Know the balance of energy intake and expenditure and the idea of a balanced diet.
Safety is heavily examined. Know the causes of injury (poor warm-up, incorrect technique, unsuitable equipment, fatigue, overtraining), the RICE protocol for soft-tissue injury (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation), and the importance of hydration, appropriate clothing and footwear, and playing within the rules. Understand first aid basics: assessing danger, calling for help, and the recovery position.
Know the risks of performance-enhancing drugs (health damage and bans), the effects of smoking on the respiratory system, and alcohol on coordination and judgement. Understand overtraining signs: persistent fatigue, poor sleep, declining performance.
Traps to watch
Questions often ask for the first action after an injury - usually rest and ice, not massage or heat. Do not confuse RICE with DRABC (the first-aid primary survey).
Worked example
A runner twists an ankle. First remove them from play, then apply RICE: rest the joint, apply ice for about 20 minutes, compress with a bandage, and elevate the leg. Advise medical review if swelling or pain is severe.