Some research further suggests that in people unused to exercise, intense activity increases production of harmful particles in the body called oxygen free radicals. These unstable particles bind to other molecules, a process called oxidation, and may cause damage in muscular tissue. Young, intensely competitive athletes may be at risk for permanent injury. Studies are conflicting over whether intensive high impact sports in younger people cause long-term degenerative joint disease. As more older people start exercising, there has also been a risk for injuries.
Women are far more likely than men to suffer knee injuries.
Urinary incontinence also affects many female athletes who engage in high-impact exercise. Preventing High Impact Injuries. A combination of weight lifting and jumping exercises may prevent injury in young athletes by strengthening hamstrings and improving coordination. Vary training and alternate easy and harder workouts. Because of the association between high-impact exercises and oxidation, some experts suggest that eating foods rich in antioxidants, such as vitamins A, C, and E, may be worth trying.