Summer sports are a great way for kids to stay active and for young athletes to continue to hone their skills. Whether they’re participating in soccer camps, field hockey games, or any other outdoor sports, kids will experience the benefits of organized sports while having fun. However, summertime heat can make outdoor activities difficult, especially for kids who focus on the game in front of them and often forget about other things. Staying hydrated is the key to keeping kids safe and healthy while playing summer sports.
Here’s how to make sure your kids stay hydrated during soccer camps and other summer sports and activities.
Hydrate Throughout
The mistake a lot of people make is only hydrating after being active for a while. However, to prevent dehydration during strenuous activity, you have to hydrate throughout. Make sure kids drink water before their activities start, and remind them to drink while they’re playing and after they’re done. Getting kids in the habit of hydrating throughout their activities will help them stay safe and healthy while they play sports.
Choose the Right Fluids
For most sports and activities, water is all kids (and adults) need to stay hydrated. For activities that go on for several hours, a sports drink with electrolytes can help replace what you lose through sweat. It’s important to choose your sports drinks carefully, though. Many popular sports drinks contain a lot of sugar and artificial colors and flavors. Drinks with limited dyes and flavors are the best choice when you need something that has electrolytes that you won’t get from plain water.
Pay Attention to Your Body
Listening to your body is a skill that some kids innately understand, but others have to be taught. When playing sports, kids can become hyper-focused on the game and forget about what’s going on around them, including in their bodies. Remind them to take breaks if they get too hot and to drink more if they’re sweating a lot. A big part of playing sports is pushing yourself to extend your limits, but you also need to learn when to take a break and rehydrate.
Soccer Camps and More at The Edge Sports Center
Keep up with sports and training this summer at The Edge Sports Center. We have soccer camps, strength training, and many more activities to keep young athletes motivated and active all year long.