Every driver can benefit from a basic understanding of what car maintenance entails. You don’t need to be a mechanic to keep your vehicle in good shape, and with just a few simple habits you can improve the safety of your car, save money, and extend the life of your four-wheeled baby. Here are some essential, practical car maintenance tips to keep in mind before and during your time on the road (especially if you’re heading out over the Easter long weekend).  

1. Ensure that your tyres are road-ready  

Always start with your tyres. They’re literally where your car meets the road, so their condition matters more than most people realise. Check your tyre pressure at least once a month as a general rule of thumb and definitely before a long road trip. Underinflated tyres can reduce your fuel efficiency and will increase the risk of a blowout tyre, while overinflated ones can affect the handling of your car and could result in a tyre blowout. Lastly, keep an eye on the thread depth; worn tyres struggle to grip the road, especially in wet conditions. If you’re not sure how much thread is left, pop over to your nearest tyre specialist to have a look, and they will be able to gauge how many kms you have left before your tyres need replacing.  

@carssouthafrica The right tyre pressure is important, a balanced pressure is good but always check your car’s tyre pressure guideline, either in the petrol cap or inside the driver’s door. For best results check when the tyre is cool and fill it when your car is full, especially if you are going on a long road trip. You can also visit @dunloptyressa they have the best equipment to accurately check and set your tyre pressure! Phew! One less thing to worry about. #dunlop #dunloptyres #car #cartok #southafrica #cars #carscoza #tyresafety ♬ original sound – Cars.co.za

2. Check your car’s fluids 

Your engine relies on several fluids to function properly, including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Check these levels regularly and top them up when needed. Engine oil is especially important; low or dirty oil can cause serious engine damage over time. If you’re unsure, follow your car manual for recommended intervals. You can get them checked when you fill up your tank at a petrol station or if you take your car for a pre-trip service. 

3. Make sure all your lights are working 

Lights and signals are another easy but crucial check. Do a pre-trip check by walking around your car to ensure all headlights, brake lights and indicators are working properly. Not only does this help you see clearly at night, but it also ensures other drivers can see your intentions on the road. Replacing a bulb is usually quick and inexpensive, yet often overlooked. 

4. Don’t forget about your wipers and windshield 

Clear visibility is essential for safe driving. If your wipers leave streaks or make noise, it’s time to replace them. Keep your windshield washer reservoir filled, especially during dusty or rainy conditions. A clean windshield can make a big difference in reaction time and overall safety.  

5. Pay attention to unusual noises  

It might sound odd, but you should actually listen to your car. Unusual sounds, vibrations, or warning lights on your dashboard are your car’s way of telling you something is wrong. Ignoring these signs can lead to bigger (and more expensive) problems later. If something feels off, it’s better to check it early rather than wait for a breakdown. 

@rcjmobilemechanics Hear a strange noise? Don’t ignore it, your car is warning you before the breakdown hits. RCJ got you! #CarTips #RCJMobileMechanics #MechanicLife #AutoCare #vehiclemaintenance ♬ original sound – WeAuto | Baton Rouge 📍

6. Keep an emergency kit on hand  

While this may sound a little excessive, it’s a great idea to keep an emergency kit in your car. This doesn’t have to be elaborate, just a few essentials like a flashlight, jumper cables, a first aid kit, bottled water, and a spare tyre with the tools to change it. Being prepared can turn a stressful roadside situation into a manageable one.  

7. Stick to a regular service schedule 

Even if your car seems fine, routine maintenance like oil changes, brake inspections and filter replacements help prevent issues before they start. Think of it as a small investment that pays off in reliability and peace of mind. 

@csautomall Here are 5 important reasons on why you should service your car on time. Warranty Coverage: New cars come with a manufacturer’s warranty, covering repairs and replacements for a set period, which provides peace of mind and saves on maintenance costs. Latest Technology & Features: New vehicles include the most up-to-date safety features, infotainment systems, and fuel-efficient or electric powertrains. Better Reliability & Lower Maintenance: Since everything is brand new, you’re less likely to experience mechanical issues early on, reducing repair costs compared to used cars. Customization Options: You can choose the exact trim, color, and features you want, instead of settling for what’s available in the used market. Better Financing & Incentives:
Automakers and dealerships often offer lower interest rates, rebates, and other promotions that make buying new more affordable than expected. #veichleservice #tips #cardealership #coralspringskia #fyp #salesman #carmaintenance ♬ original sound – Coral Springs Automall

Taking care of your car doesn’t have to be complicated. With a bit of attention and consistency, you can keep your vehicle running smoothly and ensure every trip, whether short or long, is as safe as possible. 

Words: Yashna Balwanth 
Photography: Freepik

The post 7 Essential car maintenance tips before you hit the road appeared first on TFG Media.

@barrettjacksontv Carroll Shelby didn’t just want to dominate #Ferraris on the track, he wanted to beat them on the street, too. That vision gave rise to #LittleRed, an experimental #Shelby #GT500 unlike anything else. For decades, this legendary car was thought to be lost forever … until we found it. Watch more of “The Hunt for Little Red” on @youtube ♬ original sound – Barrett-Jackson

Unfortunately, it was the heart of the man that got to him, with angina pectoris forcing Shelby to retire from racing in 1960. However, this didn’t douse his lust for the fast and furious, as he dreamt of creating something akin to — but more reliable than — the Aston Martins, Ferraris, Jaguars and Maseratis he had driven during his racing career.  

US + UK  

Though in thrall to the speed of these iconic sports cars, Carroll Shelby was less impressed by what he saw as an inherent unreliability, with engines that required frequent maintenance. Why not, he reasoned, pop a good old American V8 engine into one of these lightweight, nimble vehicles?  

His dream became a reality when he learned that British manufacturer AC Motors could no longer source the engine required for their AC Ace sports car. Shelby pitched his idea to AC Motors, who loved it, then to Ford Motor Company, who were taken with the idea of a car that could go head-to-head with the Chevrolet Corvette.  

Thus the newly formed Shelby American and AC Motors set to work, crafting something hitherto unique: a sports car that fused British engineering with American muscle. Shelby dubbed it ‘the Cobra’, a name he said came to him in a dream.  

While the goal was to maintain the lightweight form factor of the Ace, when building the prototype, engineers had to beef up the body somewhat to accommodate the significantly greater power of a V8 engine. That meant fitting a limited-slip Salisbury rear differential, inboard rear disc brakes to reduce unsprung weight and improve handling, and thicker main chassis tubes.  

The result was the prototype Carroll Shelby Experimental 2000 (although just ‘CSX2000’ was engraved on the chassis), which was tested at the Motor Industry Research Association track in England, using the new Ford Fairlane 221 CID V8 engine.  

Finally, in February 1962, the chassis was flown to America to be fitted with a four-speed transmission and one of the very first Ford 260 CID V8 engines, at hot-rodding legend Dean Moon’s auto shop in Santa Fe Springs in California.  

Smoke, mirrors + yellow paint  

Two months later, the Cobra CSX2000 debuted at the New York Auto Show, decked out not in the iconic blue that came to be associated with the car, but in pearlescent yellow paint that Shelby was advised would look striking beneath the harsh glow of fluorescent lighting.  

It was the first of many paint jobs on the sole prototype with which Shelby did the rounds, creating the illusion that the cars were rolling off the production line. 

Thankfully, production did get going and 75 cars were sold by the end of 1962. The performance was truly mind-blowing for a street-legal vehicle, clocking 0-96km/h in four seconds and with a top speed in excess of 265km/h.  

But Shelby didn’t design the Cobra merely to tear up the streets.  

The car emerged as a powerhouse in American motorsport in the early 1960s, winning multiple races in the US Road Racing Championship and Sports Car Club of America events. 

 To compete with Ferrari’s GT cars, Shelby knew that modifications had to be made to the Cobra, resulting in the Shelby Dayton Coupe, which helped the manufacturer clinch the International Championship for GT Manufacturers in 1965. 

One for the dreamers 

With its timeless looks, innovative marriage of steel frame with lightweight aluminium body, and that monster engine — with the consequent eye-watering performance and track success — the Cobra quickly established its legacy as a pioneer of US motorsport excellence. Elvis Presley drove one in the 1966 film Spinout, and the car featured in the hit TV crime series Honey West, cementing its place in popular culture.  

Fewer than a thousand were manufactured, making it a collector’s item of the highest order, with originals selling for more than $1 million today.  

More than that, however, the Cobra remains a symbol of American innovation, an inspiration for designers and engineers the world over… and a reminder of what can happen when dreams become reality.  

@polloloco_cars Mclaren M1A Oldsmobile, amazing V8 sound! #fyp #foryou #foryoupagee #mclaren #mclarenm1a #elvispresley #elvis #v8 #v8power #theicestmoritz ♬ som original – bakura

Words: Anthony Sharpe
Photography: Unsplash, Gallo/Getty images

Also read: These car brands are eager to be the best

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“With the excitement of holidays and the long-awaited relaxation of year-end festivities, it can be tempting to let your guard down or become distracted from basic medical and safety precautions,” warns emergency medicine specialist Dr Steve Feris. “Small precautions can save lives, and the holidays or after-exam parties are no exception. Accidents tend to happen when they are least expected, but many can be prevented.” 

“In our hot summer climate, dehydration and heatstroke are real dangers we can’t ignore. For drivers, it’s essential to stay well hydrated and take regular breaks to keep their brains alert on the road. Never leave anyone or any pets in a parked vehicle, not even for a few minutes at a rest stop, because the temperature inside the car rises to dangerous levels that can very quickly become a medical emergency,” Dr Feris says. 

“Be sure to carry your prescribed medications with you when travelling, and ensure you have a sufficient supply to last in case your trip home is unforeseeably delayed. For people with a chronic health condition that requires them to stay away from certain foods or activities, the holidays can be fraught with temptation, so please take extra care to monitor and control your condition, and seek medical attention early if you notice something out of kilter,” he advises. 

Dr Feris says hand and food hygiene become even more important when we are travelling. “Roadside snacks and eating from unfamiliar establishments can also expose us to gastrointestinal infections or ‘tummy bugs’, which can range from uncomfortable and inconvenient to potentially serious, requiring hospital care. 

“While travelling, it’s safer to stick to light snacks such as crackers and foods that are less likely to support microbial growth. Avoid heavy meals on the road or anything that may have been prepared in questionable conditions or made in bulk earlier without proper temperature control,” he says. 

Safety tips for safer roads 

According to Netcare 911’s regional operations manager, Shaun Paul, road safety begins long before you hit the highway – starting with a thorough vehicle service and safety check. “Be sure to check you have a warning triangle, emergency torch, and an up-to-date first aid kit for every journey,” he advises.  

“Driver fatigue and drunk driving are two major and preventable contributors to road accidents. Stop for regular breaks and rest to keep your eyes fresh and your reflexes sharp. Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and if you are a passenger, insist on driver sobriety – it could save your life,” he says. 

Seatbelts or approved age-appropriate car seats are essential for everyone travelling in a vehicle. Remember, children must never stand or sit on someone’s lap in a moving car. “Keep your eyes on the road at all times and be vigilant of other road users. Don’t allow yourself to be distracted by mobile devices while driving – leave phone calls, messaging and navigation to others or pull over somewhere safe before looking at your phone,” Paul says. 

Words: Netcare 

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Donald Ramphadi, who was runner-up in the Wimbledon men’s wheelchair doubles finals in July this year, grew up in rural Limpopo and dreamed of emulating his football idols from Orlando Pirates. He was an extremely active child and his mother had her hands full. However, Donald’s world changed forever when he was diagnosed with brittle bone disease at the age of 12. 

Rewinding two decades, Donald admits that it was the toughest time of his life. “I went from being an active kid to sitting on a chair and asking people to do things for me,” he tells us from his home in Pretoria. At the time, he said to himself: “It’s done, Donald… You’re useless and you’re not going to fulfill your dreams.” 

But he says the change came when he got the opportunity to attend a disability school in Tzaneen, with the help of a social worker in the area, and he accepted the way he was and came to terms with his new normal’. At the school, young Donald met children who were in an even worse state but were confident in their own bodies. That was the moment when he totally shifted his outlook. 

With the support of his late mother, Linah, whom he describes as ‘Superwoman’, he realised that if he didn’t accept himself, how could he expect other people to accept him?  

“Everything that I do today is to restore hope to the hopeless,” says Donald, who used to be a keen soccer player before the life-changing diagnosis. “I wanted to be a soccer star, but after I got sick I gave tennis a try [in 2009].”  

Tennis SA development officer Patrick Selepe spotted his talent early on and the sport soon became an outlet through which Donald’s competitive edge was reignited. It offered him the same rush he’d experienced playing soccer in the village.  

Living without limits  

Ever since he started playing in the official quad division of wheelchair tennis in 2018, Donald has morphed into more than just a champion on the court. His mission is to inspire black youth – especially those with disabilities – to dream bigger.  

“My message is that anything is possible, whether you have a disability or not he says. “You can be whoever you want to be but you have to work very hard.” 

When he first picked up a racquet, Donald admits he saw tennis as “a sport for whites”. His achievements in the game — most notably Grand Slam titles, Paralympic medals and global recognition – have shifted the narrative and this perception. He encourages black youth with disabilities to take up tennis and believe in their potential  

Donald played tennis for the longest time without material reward, but he had an unyielding belief that his time would come and he’d rise to the top of the sport. He hails from a disadvantaged family and never knew his father, but raised his head up and went for what he wanted in life.  

Today, his 11-year-old son Tebogo is living out his father’s dreams as a footballer and Donald reveals his son’s nickname is ‘Neymar, owing to his Brazilian-type flair on the field.  

Career bests  

• Quads doubles winner at the French Open (2023), with Andy Lapthorne. 
• Quads doubles bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, with Lucas Sithole (a first for Africa). 
• Singles semi-finals of the US Open (2023), Australian Open (2023, 2024) and Wimbledon (2025). 
• Doubles finals of the US Open (2023), Australian Open (2023, 2024) and Wimbledon (2025).

The role model  

Beyond the sporting sphere, Donald is focusing on being the male role model he never had. The lessons he wants to impart to his child are to be grateful, kind and know no limits. 

“I didn’t grow up with a father figure and had so many challenges. I know how painful it is and really don’t want my son to experience that,” he says. “I love to tell my story because I believe it can touch people and change how they think.”  

He stresses that if someone is being negative, they can be negative, but he doesn’t allow that to disturb him. He also reveals that, for him, tangible self-acceptance came when he was comfortable wearing shorts again.  

He would always wear long trousers to hide his feet until fellow wheelchair tennis star Kgothatso Montjane sparked the mindset shift. She said to Donald: “If you’re not going to accept yourself, no one is going to accept you.” 

Ever since, he’s been rocking his shorts and sneakers, and if people stare, he frames it as them enjoying his fashion style instead of judging his physical appearance.  

Last year, Donald admits he was not “okay mentally”, dealing with personal issues, and even thought about retiring. But he’s the sole provider and representing his family remains his ‘why’. As such, he has no plans to call time on his triumphant tennis career any time soon. He intends competing in two more Paralympics and playing for at least another 10 years.  

@officialteamrsa Introducing Donald Ramphadi, an inspiring wheelchair tennis player making strides on the court! 🎾💪 With passion and resilience, he’s a true representation of #TeamSA. ♬ original sound – OfficialTeamRSA

Fast facts  

Full name: Donald Tebogo Ramphadi  

Nickname: Dona

DOB: 10 June 1993  

Age: 32

Hometown: Mogapeng, Limpopo

Plays: Right-handed

Preferred surface: Hard

Rankings: Africa and South Africa’s No.1 quad player; sixth in the world (ITF) quad singles player; eighth in the world quad doubles player.  

By: Grant Shub
Photography by: Gallo/Getty Images, Supplied
Text courtesy of  MAN magazine

Also read: 5 Grooming tips for men this summer  

The post Donald Ramphadi: The dynamic wheelchair tennis ace  appeared first on TFG Media.

 

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He doesn’t just win tennis matches, he bends time. At 38 years old, Novak Djokovic is still rewriting the record books. With 24 Grand Slam titles, seven ATP Finals crowns and over 400 weeks as the world’s No.1, it’s no doubt that he is a champion. 

 

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At this point in what has been a phenomenal career, Novak is no longer measured by scorelines and statistics. He is in the middle of a transformation, one that puts family and legacy alongside the relentless pursuit of victory. What matters to him now is balance, between his love of the game and his love of family; between being the greatest of all time and between being, just simply, Novak.

The start of Novak’s tennis career 

His story begins in Belgrade (in now Serbia) during the Yugoslavia War, which started in 1991 with the breaking up of the Soviet Union and ethnic conflict in the region. He first picked up a tennis racquet at the age of four, when the war started, and the rest is history (literally). Novak left home as a 12-year-old to join the Pilić Tennis Academy in Oberschleissheim, near Munich in Germany.

 

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By age 18, he’d entered the top 100 of the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP), and in July 2006 won his first ATP event. In 2003 he turned pro, and by 2008 he had clawed his way to winning his first Gland Slam — the Australian Open.In December 2010 he led the team of his newly formed country, Serbia (which gained independence in 2006), to the country’s first Davis Cup title.

This marked the beginning of a 43-match winning steak, the third-longest in the Open era (since 1968), which in 2011 included his first of seven Wimbledon wins.  

To explore more about Novak Djokovic’s incredible journey and achievements, subscribe to Man Magazine today!

Words: Rughsaar Bibi Ismail
Photography: Gallo/Getty Images, Instagram

The post Novak Djokovic: King of the court appeared first on TFG Media.

Nomsa doesn’t just play rugby; she lives it. When she’s not working at the hospital, she’s all in at the gym or training with her squad, putting in serious hours to stay match-ready – and it shows. The Springbok Women’s team, which she’s a part of, made us proud by reaching the quarterfinals at the Women’s Rugby World Cup in the UK earlier this year.  

In her nursing role, Nomsa often draws on the same grit and strength she uses on the field. Whether she’s tackling medical emergencies or rugby opponents, her power and courage are always in play. 

Thriving in these different roles 

“I became a nurse because I wanted to help people. I have the kind of personality that wants to help, that wants to nurture and see people getting better,” she shares. “I like to encourage people when they’re having the treatment they need at the hospital, and to help them not to lose hope.” 

Nevertheless, she also wanted to play rugby because there’s a whole generation to inspire. “It’s that simple. If they see me doing it, it could spark something inside them that says, ‘I can too’,” she explains. 

Nomsa acknowledges that it’s not always easy to manage her two demanding roles. “I work night shifts, so immediately after work, I go to the gym for training. Sometimes I swap work shifts with other nurses, so that I can attend the Springboks training camps,” she says. 

 

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It’s all about teamwork 

“I often think that in a medical setting, you can be as brilliant as ever, whether you are a doctor or a nurse or whatever other role, but you still require the person who is working next to you to help you to be successful,” she explains.  

“For example, you cannot resuscitate somebody alone. You need someone else to manage the airways, a colleague to manage circulation, and someone to see to the medication, so that the procedure is a success. So, it helps to identify other people’s strengths and combine them with yours to save a life.” 

She believes that rugby also teaches us to identify one another’s strengths. “It’s a team sport. As an individual, you can be very fit and super-fast, but you will never conquer your opposing team alone. You need your team for that,” she reflects. 

“For me, both these uniforms mean teamwork. I love working with other people. I always learn from others, and I also love to teach them what I know,” she says.  

She paid tribute to Netcare and her unit manager, Taahira Mondell, for allowing her to pursue her rugby career. “I’ve been assisted and supported, and I have really appreciated this.” 

Why Nomsa chose rugby 

Asked why, of all the sports available to women, she chose rugby, Nomsa laughs. “Because many people don’t think women can play rugby. I never thought I’d play rugby because I grew up thinking girls played netball and basketball, and the guys played rugby. I want to prove that we can do the same as men do,” she explains.  

“I’ve played a lot of sports, but what makes rugby so unique is that it creates a bond that connects you with different characters and diverse cultures in a way that encourages you to merge and become a family. It has that special quality.” 

 

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H2: The beautiful things in life 

“I love to bake (especially dark chocolate brownies), cook delicious pasta dishes and sew my own clothes,” she says. She also used to do modelling and is still a confessed fashionista. “My previous rugby coaches couldn’t understand that there was this model that plays rugby. But regardless of the physical sport that I play, I’m still a woman, and I love looking beautiful – you know, having lashes, makeup, nails and a nice outfit.” 

“Many people think I am that strong girl, that tough cookie. But I have a big, soft heart,” she shares. “I think my colleagues may see me as being quite strict because I like certain things being done a certain way at work. It’s not that I want it done my way, I want it done the right way.” 

 

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Nomsa says that although she sometimes finds it a bit overwhelming when people recognise her, she admits it’s lovely to connect with different people, and to see that people really acknowledge and appreciate what she does. 

The best of both worlds 

“The best thing about my job is being able to be a compassionate and caring nurse to those I help, like when I can be a shoulder to cry on or share words of encouragement. Seeing people getting better is what we want to see every day,” she says. 

“With rugby, the best feeling isn’t just about winning. Winning is a collective team effort, and it’s great when that happens. I want to inspire young girls and young women to play rugby, and I also want to inspire those who are struggling to juggle two things at the same time,” she reflects.  

“I feel like this is my journey and my story. It’s a testimony to say that you actually can do this – be one woman, with two uniforms and many aspects – and still walk tall.” 

Words: MNA of behalf of Netcare 

Photography: Supplied

The post From healing to tackling, Springbok Nomsa Mokwai has got it covered  appeared first on TFG Media.

Follow these 10 road safety tips:

1. Inspect the condition of your tyres 

Your vehicle’s tyres need to be maintained properly and checked regularly to ensure that they are in good condition. Check for any cuts, cracks, bulges or damage from the countless hazards encountered when driving, including potholes and sharp debris well in advance and fix before going on the road.  

2. Don’t forget the spare tyre  

Check the condition and pressure of the vehicle’s spare tyre as well. If the vehicle is equipped with a mobility kit instead of a spare tyre, ensure that it is in proper working order before leaving for your destination.   

3. Maintain tyre pressure 

Maintaining the correct tyre pressures is essential, and this should be checked regularly at least every two weeks. Under-inflated tyres can negatively affect the vehicle’s handling, increase fuel consumption and wear. Over-inflated tyres will result in reduced grip, longer braking distances and significantly increased wear in the centre of the tyre. The tyre pressures must also be adjusted for unladen and laden operating conditions and should be checked when the tyres are cold. 

4. Do a road-worthy check on your trailer and caravan 

If you are towing a caravan or trailer, carefully inspect the condition of the tyres, and adjust the pressures correctly. Trailers and caravans often stand in the sun for long periods with little use, impacting the performance and lifespan of the tyres. 

5. Check the tread on your tyres  

The minimum legal tread depth is 1.6mm for tyres with tread wear indicators, or 1mm for tyres without this feature. If the tread is below the legal limit, it’s time to replace your tyres. Wet handling and braking performance are significantly impacted when the tread depth drops below 3mm, and is especially dangerous below 1.6mm, resulting in much longer stopping distances and a significantly higher risk of aquaplaning.  

6. Make sure your service is up to date 

An all-round technical check-up of your vehicle and trailer or caravan is advised before embarking on your trip. Items to be examined include oil and coolant levels, brakes, battery, lights, windscreen wipers and shock absorbers. You can either do this yourself or visit a vehicle service or fitment centre, such as BestDrive.  

7. Take regular rest stops 

In the rush to reach your holiday destination, many people drive long distances without stopping for a break. This results in fatigue and the increased likelihood of a collision. It is recommended to stop and have a break at least every two hours. If you’re tired, rather stop in a safe location and rest – after all, arriving late is better than not getting there at all. 

8. Be vigilant for pedestrians 

Almost half of South Africa’s road accident fatalities involve pedestrians. Accordingly, watch out for people crossing the road, especially at night. Pedestrians are advised to wear bright clothing, ideally with reflective fabric, when walking at night to improve their visibility to other road users. 

9. Safely pull off in an emergency  

If your vehicle breaks down during your journey, pull well off the road into the safest possible location, and place a warning triangle at least 50 metres behind your car to warn other motorists. Changing tyres or working on your car on the roadside verge is extremely dangerous, so exercise caution. 

10. Practice good driving behaviour 

Poor driving behaviour is a major contributing factor in road accidents. Mobile phone usage when driving has become one of the world’s leading causes of accidents, as it takes your attention and eyes off the road – often with tragic consequences. Avoid drinking when driving, as it severely impacts your vision, awareness and reaction times. Finally, showing a bit of patience and consideration for other road users goes a long way towards a peaceful, enjoyable and safe holiday for you and your family! 

Words: Continental Tyre SA
Images: Pexels 

Also read: Screen-free activities to keep your kids busy on the road 

The post 10 Road safety tips for drivers appeared first on TFG Media.

Smart play starts with injury prevention 

“The sport is an excellent form of cardio exercise, however as more amateur players take to the padel courts, we are seeing an increase in injuries associated with it, especially to the knees, shoulders, elbows, and ankles,” says Dr Ashley Naidoo, who practices at Netcare Waterfall Hospital’s Sports Orthopaedic Surgery (SOS) Centre. 

Recent research from Europe shows that around 36% of recreational padel players are injured each year. “Many of the common padel injuries affect the lower limbs, with ankle sprains, overused knees, calf and thigh strains, and Achilles tendon problems fairly common – particularly in players over 30 and in those who are new to the game,” he says.“Padel players should also be aware of the risk of upper limb injuries, as pain or strains affecting the elbow, shoulder, and wrist are also prevalent, especially among players using heavy rackets and less experienced players who are still working on improving their technique.” 

Dr Naidoo also points out that many padel injuries can be avoided. “Prevention of injuries is always better than treating them, and given the growing popularity of padel tennis, I would advise anyone who is enjoying this sport to make prevention part of their preparation.” 

Remember to warm up before serving 

Physiotherapist Ulaysha Narandas, part of the multidisciplinary team at Netcare Waterfall City SOS, stresses the importance of warming up before you start playing.  

“Research from European and Latin American sources has consistently highlighted one common theme: the absence of a structured warm-up dramatically increases injury risk,” she says. 

“Most padel-related injuries – especially to the knees and calves – happen early in matches when cold muscles are pushed too hard, too fast. Her advice: start every session with 10 minutes of active movement, including light jogging, mobility drills, and dynamic stretching. After the game, static stretching of the legs, forearms, and lower back helps prevent tightness and speed up recovery.” 

The structured smart training programme, provided at Netcare Waterfall City Hospital, combines education with hands-on training, ideal for padel players looking to elevate their game and avoid injury. 

The individualised training programme offers safe, strength training for all ages. It is also especially effective for improving strength without overstraining joints. 

Wear the proper shoes 

Dr Naidoo points out that appropriate padel footwear is another critical piece of the injury prevention puzzle.  

“Padel is played on synthetic turf, often with sand infill, and requires lateral grip and ankle support. Running shoes and general trainers are unsuitable, increasing the risk of slipping or ankle rolls. Footwear designed specifically for padel or clay tennis surfaces offers the best protection. Recent Spanish data suggests that hybrid or omni-soles may reduce impact forces compared to full herringbone designs,” he says. 

“By combining smart training, proper preparation, suitable footwear, and evidence-based rehabilitation, players of all ages can enjoy padel while minimising injury risk. Whether you’re playing socially or competitively, whether you’re 25 or 65, playing smart today can help you stay on court and pain free for years to come.” 

 Words: Netcare

Photography: Pexels 

Also read: How these A-list celebrities stay on top of their fitness 

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Tyres remain the most important safety component on any vehicle, providing the crucial point of contact between the car and the road, responsible for managing all of the forces generated by accelerating, braking and steering. While the handling characteristics of the vehicle and tyres are fairly predictable in dry conditions, wet roads significantly reduce the threshold for maintaining grip and control and add a measure of uncertainty regarding the limits of safety. 

The tread design of a tyre fulfils several roles, from noise reduction to enhancing traction. However, a crucial element of any tyre is the grooves in the tread that are designed to channel water away from the road surface. This ensures that the rubber remains in contact with the road to provide an all-important grip. However, even the best tyres in the world and cars with the most advanced active safety features experience longer stopping distances in wet conditions compared to dry due to slippery conditions – and driving behaviour should be adapted to suit. 

The situation becomes even more dangerous as the tyre wears and the grooves in the tyre become shallower. New on-road tyres typically have a tread depth of 8 mm, while off-road tyres are between 10 and 12 mm. Did you know that new tyres are capable of dispersing up to 30 litres of water a second at 80 km/h, but as the tread wears, it is able to displace less water? This leads to longer stopping distances. 

Although the legal tread depth is 1.6 mm for tyres with integrated tread wear indicators, or 1 mm without this feature, it is recommended that tyres should be replaced at a minimum tread depth of 3 mm due to much longer braking distances experienced in the wet with tyres that are worn. 

In a back-to-back tyre test performed at Continental’s advanced Contidrom testing facility in Germany, the braking distance increased by 6.9 metres on tyres with the legal minimum tread depth of 1.6 mm, compared to the full tread depth of 8 mm (an increase of 24 percent). Tyres with a 3 mm tread only took 2.7 metres (or 7 percent) longer to come to a full stop, proving exactly why the condition of your vehicle’s tyres is critical when driving in the wet. 

Here are two dangers of driving in wet conditions: 

Aquaplaning  

Every tyre has a limit on the volume of water it can displace via the tread grooves when driving. Once that limit is exceeded, water accumulates in front of the tyre faster than it can be displaced, resulting in the tyre being separated from the road surface by a layer of water, which is known as aquaplaning. In this dangerous situation, the tyre loses all grip, and the driver experiences a total loss of control – with potentially disastrous consequences. 

Two major factors contribute to aquaplaning, the first being the tyre’s remaining tread depth. As with wet braking, the ability of the tyre to disperse water reduces as the tyre wears, and there is a greater risk of aquaplaning when the tyre has worn down to 3 mm, and even more so as it reaches just 1.6 mm. 

The second contributor to aquaplaning is speed. The faster the tyre is travelling, the higher the rate at which it is required to disperse water. Once the tyres are overcome by the volume of water, they lose contact with the road surface and the car becomes out of control. Steering and braking inputs have little impact on the car’s trajectory in this situation, and the assistance of driver aids such as ABS brakes and stability control is rendered almost entirely ineffective until the vehicle is through the water and grip is restored, in which case it may be too late to avoid an accident. 

Therefore, it’s essential to reduce speeds when driving in wet conditions, approach any standing water with caution, and ensure that your tyres have the required tread depth to handle these conditions. 

Potholes  

Potholes are a major hazard in South Africa due to a lack of road maintenance, while extended rainy periods result in new potholes emerging from one day to the next. 

Approach wet conditions with extra care and reduce speed to account for potential tyre-decimating potholes that may be filled with water and not immediately visible – especially at night when they are more difficult to see. Hitting a pothole at high speed risks destroying the tyre and possibly even the rim or suspension of your vehicle, while lower speeds significantly reduce the severity of the impact. 

Should you hit a pothole, pull off the road as soon as possible in a safe area and inspect the sidewall of the tyre for any cuts or bulges that may indicate external or internal damage. If in doubt, head to your nearest tyre fitment centre as soon as possible for inspection by a tyre expert. 

Text: Continental Tyres
Image: Pexels 

The post Can your car’s tyres handle winter’s wet conditions?  appeared first on TFG Media.

Today’s motor vehicles provide people with a greater freedom of movement, with easier access to places of work and trips further afield from home. However, with the number of cars on the roads increasing over the years, car crashes are becoming more common. When cars carry their passengers along a road, the engine provides the vehicle with kinetic energy. This is the energy of motion.   

In the event of a crash, vehicles lose kinetic energy and ultimately come to a stop, but this energy doesn’t vanish. Instead, it’s transferred to other objects, vehicles and sometimes people, causing the damage seen in road collisions. An object that has been struck by the car may absorb the kinetic energy of the moving car or return it to the vehicle.  

Today’s cars are designed to take the brunt of this energy, transferring it into their metal frames, which are crushed and distorted, breaking their internal components. However, despite this protective technology, the driver and passengers exposed to a collision will usually absorb a small percentage of the kinetic energy. Being much more fragile than the metal machine that surrounds them, at least one of a car’s occupants will suffer some kind of injury in 43 per cent of car crashes.  

The life-saving armour of modern vehicles  

Seat belts

During a car crash, you’re more likely to survive if you aren’t thrown out of the vehicle. Seat belts are essential for securing a rider to their seat.  

Rigid safety cell

Unlike crumple zones, which are easily crushed to absorb an impact, the zone containing people is made of rigid stainless steel.  

Side-bar protection

Stainless-steel bars along the sides of vehicles absorb much of the impact from a side-on collision.  

Anti – lock braking

When drivers hit the brakes suddenly, the wheels can lock, causing the vehicle to skid. Anti-lock brakes help prevent that by rapidly applying and releasing the brakes until the vehicle comes to a stop, rather than slamming the brakes fully down.  

Crumple zone

The front and back of a car have crumple zones that extend outwards from the passenger cabin. During an impact, these areas predictably crumple up and absorb as much of the impact as possible. 

Air bags

When a sensor behind the dashboard detects a hard front-on impact, these bags inflate rapidly with nitrogen gas to cushion the driver and passengers. 

Safety glass

Instead of completely shattering when the car’s windshield glass breaks, the glass fragments stick to a strong layer of plastic between the car occupants and the window.  

How the latest smart technology can predict and prevent a road collision 

Lane-departure tracking

Cameras at the front of the car track the car’s position in a lane. If the vehicle moves out of the lane without the driver indicating, a warning signal alerts the driver to return to the correct position on the road.  

Emergency braking

Cameras and radar sensors at the front of the car detect when an object is too close to the moving vehicle. When this is the case, automatic emergency braking can be applied.  

Blind-spot monitoring

If a car is travelling in the adjacent lane in an area uncovered by mirrors, the car will alert the driver if they are about to make an unsafe lane change.   

Eye tracking

A small camera on the dashboard follows the movements of the driver’s eyes, as well as the rate and speed of blinking. If a driver shuts their eyes for too long or appears distracted from the road, an alert sound.  

Enhanced rear view

Cameras at the back of the vehicle can display a clear view of objects behind the car on a screen on the dashboard. When a driver is reversing, guidelines on the screen assist with positioning the car.   

 Also read: Hack your life: Practical tricks with tech

Smartphone saviours 

When a severe car crash occurs, injured occupants may rely on nearby witnesses to call emergency services. But what happens if a crash takes place on a deserted road and the car’s occupants are unresponsive? Many modern smartphones now come equipped with crash-detection technology that uses data such as the speed at which the phone is travelling, sound levels and pressure changes to deduce that a car accident may have occurred.  

The iPhone 14 and latest Google Pixel phones will play an alarm whenever data suggests that there has been a crash and automatically send an alert to emergency services. If it is a false alarm, the phone owner can swipe to disable the alert, but in a legitimate emergency situation, the device will share the location with first responders so that there can be a speedy response and a higher chance of survival for those involved. 

Also read: Why electronic devices employ tech for eye tracking

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