Leisure Kicks - The essencial sport and leisure guide

The first thing you need to find to get in the game is a space to play it in! An American football field is known as ‘The Gridiron’. This has a series of one-yard hash marks down the middle so the progress of the ball can be measured. Touchdowns are scored in the final sections at each end – known as endzones. Traditional goalposts look like wishbones. As for the kit: variations of the game require different amounts of equipment. For the kitted version of the sport players wear a specialised helmet and shoulder pad set to protect them. Protective pads are also worn on other areas of the body. Players also wear a distinctive shirt and pants set designed to meet the rigours of the game. For the non-contact version of the game (flag football) players use specialised belts with detachable flags, the removal of which signals a tackle. Finally there is the ball. Different ages play with different size balls, all with the distinctive laces on the side.  

The Ball: American footballs have a distinct shape with laces running down the side. They come in different sizes for different age groups.
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The Helmet and Pads: Essential wear for the contact version of the sport. The shoulder pads come in various fittings, tailored to the role you play on the field. Helmets vary in size and specification based upon the age and need of the player.
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Footwear: Shoes vary dependent upon the surface of the field. The type of studs and certain characteristics of the shoe are limited by rule.
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The Field: The American football field is known as ‘The Gridiron’. This has a series of one-yard hash marks down the middle so the progress of the ball can be measured. Touchdowns are scored in the final sections at each end – known as endzones. Traditional goalposts look like wishbones.
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Choose your sport

The basics include a helmet
NFL