Whether training in the blistering sun or a heated indoor facility, soccer practices in high temperatures are an added challenge for players. Not only does heat affect performance, it can also lead to injury in extreme cases. This post will take a look at how players can bear high temperatures while playing the beautiful game.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Adequate hydration is not an option. Fail to drink enough water in high temperatures and players risk suffering a heat injury (ie. heat stroke). Even if it doesn’t get that bad, players can easily have a hard time concentrating or develop muscle cramps and fatigue.
It’s absolutely crucial that players drink plenty of water before, during and after practices or games. Remember, the body is 65% water, so if you’re dehydrated, your organs, muscles and tissues won’t function properly. So drink plentifully and regularly - your body and performance will thank you.
Reduce Volume of Play in Heat
Coaches, staff members and league organizers need to be very cognizant of the loads and volumes they subject players to. With that said, if it’s very hot, games should be cancelled, rescheduled or relocated. The health and safety of players takes priority over any schedule.
With that said, if it’s not unbearably hot but still very warm, it’s wise for coaches to be mindful of how much time players spend in the heat. That could mean reducing practice sessions and substituting a little more often in games.
Emphasize Staying Cool
A big part of staying cool is to make use of tools, technology and other items that provide relief from heat. If you’re outdoors, that means sitting under or around trees (where possible) or setting up tents for the team to sit under. If you’re indoors, that could mean turning up the air conditioner and keeping windows closed to prevent hot air from entering the facility. These relatively are simple actions to take, but they can make a big difference in terms of how players feel.
Pick the Best Times of Day to Practice (Where Possible)
You might not always have control over where you get to play or practice. But if you do, choose the best times of the day to use the venue. For example, for school soccer teams at the secondary or post-secondary level, access to school ground fields is usually flexible.
That means you can aim to practice at specific times during the day, when it's not as hot, such as early morning or late afternoons. You can also adjust your training schedule so that more intensive drills take place on cooler days.
Wear Appropriate Training Gear
Last but not least, protection against hot weather requires the right soccer training gear. If you want to stay cool, you’ve got to dress the part. That means you should wear lightweight and breathable fabrics that allow air to easily pass through them.
Moisture-wicking fabrics are a plus as well, because they wick away sweat. Don’t hesitate to take heat protection a step further. Fabrics that provide UV protection are also a great idea for the team to wear, because days of extreme heat are usually accompanied by a blazing sun.
Fortunately, when it comes to finding soccer training gear that’s suitable for hot weather, we’ve got you covered. Our line of Storelli training gear offers a combination of many heat-protective features including moisture-wicking ability, UV protection and more.
Beat the Heat in Soccer
Heat extremes can tire out the most well-conditioned soccer player, or even injure them. That’s why it’s vital to prepare for hot weather in advance. However, if you follow the tips mentioned in this article, heat shouldn’t pose any threat to the performance or health of your team and teammates. And you’ll be able to bring the heat, not wither from it.
Looking for soccer training gear? Browse through our selection of men’s, women’s and youth apparel and gear
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