Pickleball is a popular outdoor sport that requires players to move quickly and make sudden stops and turns. As a result, it is not uncommon for players to experience heat stress injuries during play (heat exhaustion, heat stroke), especially when temperatures rise above 80 degrees. Follow these tips to prevent heat stress injuries during pickleball:
Stay hydrated: Proper hydration is essential for preventing heat stress injuries. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after play, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Wear appropriate clothing: Wear lightweight, breathable clothing that allows sweat to evaporate and keep you cool. Avoid dark colors that can absorb heat.
Take frequent breaks: Take regular breaks in the shade or indoors to cool down and rest. Avoid playing during the hottest part of the day, usually between 10am and 4pm (that’s a great time to play inside at Mega!)
Use sunscreen: Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Cool down after play: After play, take a cool shower or bath to lower your body temperature.
As with any sport, warming up properly before playing pickleball is essential to prevent injuries and perform at your best. Here are a few examples of dynamic warm up exercises you can do before playing pickleball:
High Knees: Start jogging in place, and then bring your knees up as high as you can, alternating between your right and left leg.
Butt Kickers: Like high knees, start jogging in place, and then bring your heels up towards your glutes, alternating between your right and left leg.
Lunges: Take a big step forward with one leg and bend your knee, keeping your back straight. Return to the starting position and repeat with the other leg.
Arm Circles: Stand with your arms extended straight out to your sides. Make small circles with your arms, gradually increasing the size of the circles.
Jumping Jacks: Jump your feet apart while bringing your arms overhead, then jump your feet back together while bringing your arms back to your sides.
Mega Minnetonka
Address
17585 MN-7
Minnetonka, MN 55345
Mega Chanhassen
Address
2929 Water Tower Pl
Chanhassen, MN 55317
(952) 300-8752
