If you are looking for a way to keep both the adults and kids in your family active and fit during the summer months, there’s no denying that playing tennis will do the trick. With access to free outdoor courts and plenty of sunny days ahead, getting your game on is easy and keeps the summer months fun. In fact you might find that your crew has so much fun that you forget to pay attention to the time and the effect the high temps are having on you and your little athletes.
Protecting yourself from the sun and heat while you play is important. Much like a sunburn, dehydration can sneak up on you, and before you know it you are too sick to play.
Dehydration occurs when your body doesn’t have the amount of water it needs to function properly. Your body gets the fluids it needs from the food and drinks you consume and it loses them through every day activities like sweating, breathing, and going to bathroom. If you don’t replenish fluids as quickly as you lose them you start to feel sick. If left unaddressed, dehydration can pose a serious threat to your health.
It’s important to educate yourself on the signs of dehydration and how to avoid it when the temperatures soar. Symptoms of dehydration may differ slightly according to age.
The following are indications that your child may be dehydrated:
Signs of dehydration in adults include:
The best way to address dehydration is before it occurs. Before you head out to play, follow these summer health tips:
The sooner you identify the signs of dehydration, the easier it is to treat it. If you notice signs or symptoms, stop playing tennis and find a cool, shaded place to relax. Elevate your feet and remove extra clothing.
Use rehydration drinks along with water, to replace lost electrolytes. There are rehydration drinks, like Pedialyte, made just for kids. Drink at least two quarts of cold fluids over the next two to four hours. You may begin to feel better within a couple of hours, but don’t give into the temptation to jump back on the court! It can take up to two days to recover from dehydration sickness.
Once you are feeling better, make sure to drink 10 glasses of liquid a day. Water, juices, and rehydration drinks count. Consider adding high water content foods to your diet. Fruits like grapes, berries, and watermelon are a great snack to pack a long with you on your active summer outings. Similarly, cucumbers, lettuce, and tomatoes are refreshing and good for your health. Most importantly, don’t forget to bring water with you wherever you go!
Follow these summer health tips and make sure to bring your RecTennis water bottle along to help you stay hydrated around the clock!