Did you know the eSports market is expected to generate $317 million in revenue in the United States this year?
According to Statista, revenue could grow at a 7.42% compound annual growth rate from this year to 2027 — reaching $422.1 million by the end of the forecast period.
People involved in eSports take their craft seriously. But too much time sitting behind a computer — no matter how comfortable the chair — can take its toll if you’re not careful.
With that said, here’s a look at some things you can do to stay in tip-top shape while enjoying eSports.
1. Do Wrist and Hand Exercises
If you’re an avid eSports participant, you’ll want to do wrist and hand exercises regularly. They can give your eSports career some longevity. You don’t want to sustain repetitive strain mishaps like carpal tunnel syndrome. Such an injury can derail the career of even the most promising eSports participants. In addition to allowing for routine breaks, you should stretch your wrists, rotate your wrists in circles, and flex your fingers. Try doing these simple exercises every hour or so when engaged in eSports. Remember that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. You’ll be ready for the rigors of eSports if you stay on top of wrist and hand exercises.
2. Avoid Eyestrain
Did you know that nearly two in three Americans experience symptoms of digital eye strain? These symptoms can include dry eye, eye pain or fatigue, blurred vision, headache, and neck and back discomfort. When you’re locked in on an eSports game, it can be easy to get carried away. But it’s best to remember to rest your eyes occasionally. A general rule of thumb is that for every 20 minutes, you spend staring at a screen, you should look at something around 20 feet away for 20 seconds. You can also check to ensure your monitor isn’t excessively bright.
3. Watch Your Posture
It’s also essential to be mindful of your posture. An ergonomic chair won’t compensate if you overdo things, but it will otherwise help you enjoy participating in eSports. You’ll do yourself no favors if you’re hunched over for hours at a time playing video games. If you have the right chair, it’ll make it easier to sit in a good playing position. Your back should be straight, and your wrists and hands should be adequately aligned. You’ll be more valuable to your eSports team when you’re comfortable. An ergonomic gaming chair will help your cause.
4. Stay Hydrated
You’ll also want to ensure you remain adequately hydrated. But don’t believe the hype. Consuming too many energy drinks high in caffeine and sugar can do more harm than good. Nothing beats good old-fashioned water. Drink plenty of it. If your hydration levels get too low, your energy level can see a corresponding dip. That’s not what you want when engaged in spirited eSports competitions against resilient opponents. You need to be on top of your game.
If you are feeling really drained and need a healthy boost, one option is to consider getting an IV hydration therapy treatment. Some service providers will send a medical professional to your home and provide IV therapy. That means you won’t have to go to a medical center. You’ll get hydrated safely, and you can request extra vitamins and minerals. The treatment will reset your body, give you a boost, and prepare you for your eSports competitions.
5. Get Enough Sleep
Are you getting enough sleep? It’ll be hard to get sufficient shuteye if you’re pulling all-nighters, whether playing eSports, partying, or even studying for school. When your circadian rhythm is disrupted, you’ll find it challenging to get to sleep. You should strive for at least seven hours of sleep per night. A lack of good sleep can lead to a lack of energy, slowed thinking, and poor decision-making. Such symptoms can hamper your eSports career. So, get enough sleep.
eSports is a growing segment that’s poised to continue growing in the years ahead. If you practice and develop your skills, you can make a career in eSports. But it’s essential to go about things the right way. Consider the suggestions above to stay safe while you have fun.