Just as it is important to stay cool and hydrated in the summer, it is equally important to stay dry and hydrated when the weather turns cold.
"Many coaches and parents underestimate the effects of dehydration and don't fully realize that their players can suffer from it during cold weather months just as easily as during the summer," said Marshall Steele, orthopedic surgeon and author of Sideline Help.
Here are a few ways to prepare for cold-weather activities:
Clothing
When dressing your player for the cold weather, it is important to not only layer their bodies, but use the right clothing.
- Athletes should wear double-sided fabric, which allows sweat to be absorbed and "wicked" away from the skin to the second layer of cloth, where it then evaporates.
- Materials to look for: polyester, lycra-spandex, nylon.
- Long underwear garments are not double layered, and once wet, will decrease the athlete's body temperature.
- Prepare for halftime by packing extra dry clothing (socks, undershirts).
Warm-Up & Stretching
Since players are more susceptible to muscle strains during cold weather, sufficient time must be given to players of all ages for a proper warm-up period.
- Begin with a coach leading a light jog around the field; express the importance that it is not a race, so keep a slow to medium pace.
- Non-explosive type calisthenics at 10 yards apart, (High Knees, Backpedal, Skipping, Shuffling).
- Resume normal stretching routine.
Hydration
When it is cold outside, players have a tendency to drink fewer fluids. They don't feel like they are sweating, thus making them more susceptible to dehydration. When it is cold, remember the following:
- Continue to walk water bottles around during practice giving your players a chance to replenish their fluids.
- Remind players to drink water before and after practice.
- A good substitute for a cold drink of water at halftime could be a small portion of warm broth or soup.
Preparation is the key to any outdoor activity, including football, when the weather turns cold. If you have questions about other safety measures to take as a coach or parent, you should consult with a physician or a certified athletic trainer.
The evaluation of any athlete, whether as a part of health evaluations prior to activity or as a diagnosis of an injury as the consequence of sports activities, is specific to that individual and the history and current state of the individual presented. Advice, diagnosis and treatment is individualized according to numerous factors, including patient health and age information, medical history and symptoms. All athletes should be cleared by a physician or other appropriate medical professional before engaging in physical activities and, after injury, diagnosis and treatment, for return to play.