Settling in for Summer

It’s official - summer is here. It’s hot and humid, it rains every afternoon and we have already had our first tropical system of the year. As the old saying goes, “Only mad dogs and Englishmen only go out in the midday sun,” and here in Southwest Florida, once we hit summer, that statement holds true as soon as the sun comes up!

So, if you reside here year-round or happen to be here on vacation, here are a few tips to help you stay safe and be able to compete to the best of your abilities in these challenging climatic conditions:

Have a proper understanding of our climate. I see a lot of people who go out early to try to beat the heat.

The problem here, early in the morning, is that it is already in the mid to upper 80’s, with high humidity and the breeze does not pick up until around 9:30 to 10:00. So, under these conditions our body’s ability to cool itself off does not function properly. To help your body cool itself, create your own breeze with a hand-held battery-operated fan and spray mist bottle filled with ice water. Using a cooling towel in addition to a regular cotton towel will also help control your body’s temperature.

In addition to having an understanding of our climatic conditions, have a proper understanding of your physical condition. When playing in the heat and humidity, you will become tired and fatigued more quickly than in cooler and less humid conditions. You will also be losing a lot more fluids so make sure you stay well hydrated before, during, and after playing. Water is the best choice for staying well hydrated while playing and I recommend a product called Emergen-C over traditional sports drinks like Gatorade for recovery hydration after playing.

Along with good hydration, it never hurts to refuel your body while you’re playing with some fruity snacks like grapes, bananas or watermelon. One of my favorite match play snacks is a peanut butter and jelly sandwich on whole wheat.

As for your playing schedule, think quality not quantity. If you normally play six or seven games, only play three or four. Remember in these conditions you are tiring out much quicker than you do in a cooler, dryer climate. I would rather stop after a few really good high-quality games, than end the day playing poorly because I’m worn out from the heat after playing too long.

Lastly, and I should not even have to mention it, wear sunscreen! Apply sunscreen at home before you go out in the sun and if possible, wear UV protective clothing, as well as sunglasses for both UV protection and impact protection, aka, being hit with the ball.

Wayne Clark is a professional tennis instructor with over 25 years’ experience coaching players on all levels of the game. Wayne is also qualified in pickleball instruction and is on staff as an instructor with The Naples Pickleball Center and Training Academy at East Naples Community Park. Contact Coach Wayne by email at coachwayneclark@aol.com, or by or by phone or text at 239-450-6161.