Playing in Cold Weather: Suggestions for Tennis Galaxy's Athletes
As cooler temperatures approach Apopka this week, it's important for Tennis Galaxy players to adjust their routines to maintain performance and safety on the court. Here are some tips to consider:
1. Dress in Layers and a Hat
It may seem obvious, but it’s one of the most effective strategies for playing in cold weather: wear multiple thin layers so you can take off small amounts as you warm up. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat off your skin, add insulating layers for warmth, and top it off with a wind-resistant outer layer to block cold air. This setup allows you to shed layers as you warm up and put them back on during breaks or cooler periods. “If you have a large, warm sweatshirt on over a T-shirt, you will go from one extreme to the other once you remove the outer layer,” as tennis writer Scott Baker points out.
For example, observe how Coach Peter starts with a dry-fit shirt, long-sleeve tee, vest, and jacket to arrive warm initially, and then removes and re-adds layers as needed throughout his sessions.
Don’t forget about heat loss from your head, which can be significant in cold weather. Wearing a hat can help retain warmth and keep you comfortable during your match.
2. Prioritize a Thorough Warm-Up
A proper warm-up is essential for injury prevention and peak performance, no matter the weather. However, in cold weather, warming up becomes even more critical as stiff muscles are more prone to injury. Coach Peter always includes a warm-up period at the start of classes, but it’s important to take personal responsibility and allow yourself extra time when temperatures drop. Begin with very light cardiovascular work to elevate your heart rate and loosen your muscles, then add dynamic stretches. Slowly increase the intensity of movements to fully prepare your body before doing any drills or playing points.
3. Keep Your Hands Warm
Cold hands can make it harder to grip your racquet and control your shots. Use jackets or shirts with pockets to keep your hands warm during breaks. While gloves might not be ideal for play, they can be helpful during warm-ups or between games. And yes, you can carry those hand warmers in your pockets—don’t worry, we’ll only tease you a little. But hey, when you’re gripping your racket like a pro while everyone else fumbles, you’ll get the last laugh.
4. Beat the Glare and Chill
Your eyes are not only affected by glare created by the lower angle of the sun during daytime winter play, but also by the cold air rushing against your eyes as you move. Wearing sunglasses—with clear lenses after sunset--can act as a barrier against the cold, keeping your vision clear and your eyes protected.
5. Adjust to the Cold Bounce
In colder temperatures, tennis balls lose their bounce and move more slowly. Take time during your warm-up to observe how the ball behaves. Refine your timing and positioning accordingly. If you have a versatile skill set, you can adapt your strategy to the conditions—slices, for instance, can be especially effective in the cold.
6. Stay Hydrated—Yes, Even When It’s Cold
Dehydration can sneak up on you in cold weather since you may not feel as thirsty as you would in the heat. Cold air also has a dehydrating effect. Make a habit of drinking water before, during, and after play. Consider bringing room-temperature water instead of ice-cold drinks to make hydration easier.
7. Know the Class and Lesson Policies During Cold Weather
Your Tennis Galaxy coaches monitor the forecast to plan accordingly. For example, in Apopka this week, temperatures are expected to drop into the mid-30s°F during the mornings. Currently, all classes and lessons are scheduled to proceed.
Class Delays or Cancellations: If we must delay or cancel a session, we will send a text to all registered participants. Please ensure your phone number is up to date in your Court Reserve profile.
Makeup Classes or Credits: If a prepaid class is canceled due to weather, a makeup class will be scheduled. If no makeup is possible, a prorated credit will be issued to your Tennis Galaxy account at the end of the cycle.
Weather Interruptions: If a class is interrupted mid-session:
If less than halfway completed, a prorated credit will be issued.
If more than halfway completed, no credit will be issued.
By incorporating these strategies and staying informed, you can continue to enjoy your time on the court regardless of the weather. Stay warm, play well, and see you on the court!