Quiz the Coach - It's Too Hot to Practice!

So ya dig sports but need some help with your game? Don't understand some of the rules of football, basketball or hockey? Got a gripe about P.E. class, skateboarders, cheerleading, coaches, or anything? Why not ?

I'm in football camp and we practice during the summer. And it is hot! Coach gives us breaks and water but I still feel like I'm gonna faint out there. The pads are heavy and it's like 110. I'm scared I'll have a heat stroke, any advice? Soxfan4evr

Soxfan4evr,
I feel your pain. I think in 110 degrees, I would get tired walking out to my mailbox. But all joking aside, this is a very serious issue in football. As you know, in past years, a lot of football players have died from heat-related conditions. As fun as the sun can be, it can be very, very dangerous. You have to be very cautious and pay close attention to the signs your body gives you. Larger people are more susceptible to heat-related injuries, so be particularly careful if you fall into that category. The most important thing is to stay hydrated throughout practice and take breaks when you are feeling tired or sick.

You indicated you get a lot of water breaks - which is good, but that does not mean you're out of harms way. If you're feeling light headed or are extremely fatigued make sure you communicate that with your coaches and parents. You're not being a wimp if you let your coaches know how your body is feeling. Also you should always tell your doctor about any worrying physical symptoms. Most parents and coaches aren't doctors (and neither am I) so if anyone would know whether you are at risk, it would be your doc. Remember, there is nothing more important than your safety and health!

If this problem persists and you find you're not enjoying football because of the conditions, then maybe you should find a sport that fits you better. There are plenty of indoor sports that are fun and excellent exercise!

Do you need tips or advice on sports, fitness or health? to the Kidzworld Coach. Keep in mind peeps, the Kidzworld Coach isn't a doctor or a professional athlete or anything like that. He's just a dude who digs sports, plays 'em and knows a lot about 'em. You should always talk to your 'rents, a doctor or your school gym teacher before starting a new sport or a new exercise.

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