Athletes take measures to stay cool in practice
Lamar University’s athletes are back in training and while they are honing their skills, they are also learning how to deal with the high heat and humidity.
“We haven’t been outside as much as we used to be, so the heat doesn’t affect us that much,” Cimara-lei Wessling, junior softball infielder said. “Though when our practice is ending, that’s when it gets really hot.
“I think the coaches and trainers are doing a really good job of making sure that we’re staying cool while trying to get enough reps in.”
Head softball coach Amy Hooks said it’s important to be cautious and acclimatize the players by gradually getting them to full stamina.
“When these high level athletes are practicing they’re going nonstop and they’ll forget to hydrate, so it’s about being really intentional about their condition,” she said.
Wessling said the team tries to stay hydrated, but sometimes water isn’t enough.
“We have electrolytes that are in our basket that are super helpful because you can just put it in your cup and run straight to practice,” she said. “Our trainers will sometimes have electrolyte pills available, so if they see that we’re nauseous or dizzy they give us one and it works pretty well.”
Some of the LU sport teams start practice early in the morning when there are fewer UV rays, Matt Lepine, assistant track coach, said
“The heat has been manageable because we practice at 6 a.m., so we hit the coolest part of the day,” Lepine said. “It can be very humid, but I’d rather that than being cooked in the sun in the afternoon.”
During training, the coaches monitor the players’ physical state for any signs of impairment.
“The signs of overheating can be similar to the signs of fatigue,” Lepine said. “If I notice a runner’s form deteriorating with any swerving or pale skin, it could be a sign of overheating or illness.
“I always try to check in with every individual, specifically at practices, to make sure they are doing OK physically and mentally.”
Lepine said the players received refillable water bottles with their equipment so they have accessible water everywhere they go.
Buildings are also being refurbished to fit the players’ needs, Julie Aime, associate golf head coach, said.
“We’re kind of reconstructing and putting some work in the women’s locker room,” Aime said. “I want to get them a lounge area with couches and a place for snacks, electrolytes, and showers — just a cleaner spot for them.
“There’s no need for them to spend eight hours in the heat non-stop, so when they take a break they can go into their little nest to be comfortable and be ready to go back out once they reset.”
Aime said the golfers are in the heat more than the cold so they have to be prepared, but it’s important not to push them to where they’re exhausted and depleted at the end of the day.
While fall is approaching, Southeast Texas is still hot. Students can follow the athletes lead and be aware of managing their bodies.