August is here and that means it is down right stifling on the courts. Playing in the summer is never easy, this is Hotlanta after all! As we approach the “Fall” ALTA season, temperatures continue to hover in the mid 90’s. With more players hitting the courts, lets review a few things that can help keep you feeling good on the courts and playing your best Tennis.
Hydrate! Hydrate! Hydrate!
Water is your #1 friend on changeovers. But it is also important to be well hydrated before stepping on the court. If you have a match later in the day, begin drinking water that morning. Once you feel thirsty on the Tennis court, it is too late. Many of you may play multiple times in a week. Hydrating after a match can help prepare your body for your next match later in the week.
Come to the Light Side!
Your clothes are one of the biggest upgrades you can make to help feel better on the courts. Finding clothes that are light colored and breathable will help keep you cool. Another refreshing idea is to bring a change of shirt for between sets. Getting into a fresh shirt can do wonders for how your body feels and how you perform!
Replace Lost Electrolytes with drinks and snacks
Although water is king for hydrating, supplementing an electrolyte replenishing alternative can help keep you feeling good. When we sweat, we most notably lose sodium. Sports drinks such as Gatorade are designed to replenish those electrolytes. Too sugary? Cut your Gatorade with water to tone down the sweetness. Another way to replenish electrolytes are snacks such as pretzels, bananas, crackers and nuts. Finding the right combination of hydration and snacks can make the difference in a match!
As Cool as Ice!
Cold packs or Ice towels can be a huge help on the tennis court. Prepare for your next match by bringing a towel with a sole purpose of cooling you down. Applying a ice towel or cold pack to your body’s pulse points can do wonders for cooling down your body’s internal temperature. The most common spot for this would be the back of your neck. Take 30 seconds on a changeover, whip that towel out, and throw it around your neck. It will do wonders!
Take Cover!
One Tennis match can last upwards of 3 hours. An entire ALTA match can last upwards of 6 hours! Be sure to find shade as often as you can even if it is just for a few seconds. Use changeovers to escape the sun by using umbrellas, court canopies, or even shade from the fence to shield you. Before and after your match, find a shady spot to cheer for your squad so that you can stay fresh or to properly recover. Escaping the sun is a must in the summer time and should not be taken lightly!
What are some of your summer time tips and tricks? Leave a comment below and share your knowledge!
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