Heat-related illnesses can be a health hazard out in the field, with high temps, the body becomes dehydrated and can affect sports performance. With temperatures in some locations, soaring past 100 degrees Fahrenheit, the need for athletes to stay cool and hydrated is a major concern.
High-heat environments will create serious health situations, which will affect sports performance. Under these circumstances, the risk of dehydration increases dramatically, which can negatively impact the ability to maintain focus and operational functionality.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention noted that for players to appropriately replace lost fluids, they should drink water every 15 minutes.
What to Do for Peak Sports Performance
So what should you do to keep athletes protected from dehydration?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration suggests those who are exposed to temperatures between 103 and 115 degrees drink four cups of water per hour. Water is the preferred choice of beverage over soft drinks or coffee because caffeine depletes electrolytes and causes dehydration quicker.
When sports teams are exposed to direct sunlight, the heat index can actually rise another 15 degrees, OSHA noted, creating a need for them to remain hydrated and avoid heat related illness.
It’s also advised to take more frequent breaks under these high-temperature situations. Providing necessary cooling and hydration stations on-site helps keep sports performance high and there is less risk of extended down time due to heat related issues.
Become capable of noticing signs dehydration before it becomes a serious health issue. Some of the signs of dehydration and overheating are-
Excessive fatigue
Trouble focusing
Sunken eyes
Rapid heartbeat
Dry mouth
Extreme thirst
Darkly colored urine
OSHA defines six heat stress disorders:
Heat Stroke: a potentially fatal condition in which the body’s temperature-regulating system fails
Heat Exhaustion: causes headaches, nausea and vertigo
Heat Cramps: caused by the loss of salt from perspiring; heat collapse or fainting, which occurs when the brain’s oxygen supply is cut off
Heat Rash: caused by perspiration that doesn’t evaporate
Heat Fatigue: results in impaired mental and motor sensory skills.
At Hydration and Cooling Sports Systems, we seek out the best technology in cooling and hydration products which can be used on the job and on the field to keep people cool and hydrated in the most efficient ways possible.
Our Misting Fans & Hydration Systems keep you cool and hydrated, which helps focus and endurance and prevents dehydration and heat-related illness, throughout the day.
When you are looking for hydration and cooling solutions to help improve sports performance with endurance, efficiency, and the overall conditions on the sports field, or worksite, be sure to give us a call or email us for recommendations. We’re here to help.
For more information, see this study – Precooling and percooling (cooling during exercise) both improve sports performance in the heat
