How to Prevent Your Contact Lenses from Slipping Out During Martial Arts Practice

Martial arts practice, especially in disciplines like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Judo, or Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), can be intense and often involves close contact, which can lead to contact lenses falling out. Understanding the reasons behind this issue and knowing how to prevent it can significantly improve your performance and ensure the comfort of your vision during training sessions.

Common Issues and Solutions

The primary factor contributing to contact lens slippage is a dry environment. When your eyes and contact lenses are dry, the thin layer of tears that normally holds the lenses in place is diminished, making them more prone to falling out. Using contact lens moisturizing drops or artificial tears before practice can help maintain the necessary moisture, reducing the likelihood of slipping.

Martial Arts Specific Challenges

Martial arts such as BJJ, Judo, and MMA pose unique challenges, as the eyes are more likely to be rubbed or irritated. For instance, in BJJ, a gi can easily rub across the eyes, leading to contact loss. As a result, many martial artists opt for Single Use/Daily disposable contacts. This approach ensures that there's minimal impact if they do lose a lens, as they can simply purchase a new pair without significant inconvenience. If you're unwilling or unable to switch to daily contacts, consult your optometrist about a contact lens that might better fit your eye shape.

Environmental Factors

While contact lenses are designed to stay in place, blinding powder can present a different challenge. If your opponent uses this tactic, the best course of action is to call a timeout, rinse your eyes with copious amounts of water, and insert a fresh pair of contacts. However, this solution is only effective in specific circumstances. If your environment is dry and contact slippage is a regular issue, consider the following steps to manage it:

Mental and Physical Relaxation Techniques

If contact lenses tend to slip out only during intense moments of tension, it might be due to tightened eye lids. Relaxation techniques can help manage this. One effective strategy is to focus on relaxation and avoid tightening your eyelids. This can reduce the chances of contact lens slippage. Another practical solution is to use sports glasses with a strap to keep them securely in place. This method is particularly useful during high-intensity drills or sparring sessions.

Consulting Your Eye Doctor

If contact lenses consistently slip out and this is not due to tension or an unsuitable lens fit, it's important to consult your eye doctor. Ensure that the base curve and diameter of your contact lenses are correct and appropriate for your eye. Misfit lenses may contribute to uncomfortable and potentially unhealthy conditions, leading to more frequent slippage.

Alternatives to Wearing Contact Lenses

For those who find that they cannot avoid contact lens slippage or who prefer not to wear them at all, an alternative is to skip wearing them during martial arts practice. This ensures that there's no risk of lenses falling out or causing discomfort. While this may limit visibility, it is a valid solution for those who find the benefits of wearing lenses outweighed by the slippage issues.

In conclusion, managing contact lens slippage during martial arts practice involves a combination of proper technique, suitable equipment, and sometimes a change in approach. By addressing dryness, considering the specific demands of your martial art, and consulting your eye doctor, you can enhance your performance and ensure the safety of your eyes.