Playing Padel in Bangkok Heat: How to Stay Safe and Keep Playing

Heat is part of the Bangkok game

Quick take. Drink more than usual and don't wait to feel thirsty. Ease in on the hottest days, avoid the hottest hours, wear loose, light clothing and keep an eye on your partner. Cramps are an early warning; faintness or weakness means stop, cool down and get help.

Bangkok rarely cools off, and the humidity makes it harder for sweat to cool you. Padel's long rallies and short breaks add up. These habits come from the US CDC's advice for athletes in the heat.

Before you play

• Pick your time. Early morning and evening are cooler. In the middle of the day, choose a covered or indoor court: our court guide shows which clubs have cover.
• Arrive hydrated. Drink through the day, not just at the court.
• Ease in. If you have been away or have just arrived in Thailand, start with shorter sessions. A proper warm-up still matters; it just needn't be long.

During the game

• Drink at every changeover, even if you are not thirsty.
• Use the shade between points if the court has any.
• Wear loose, light-coloured clothing that lets sweat evaporate, and a cap on open courts.
• Keep a towel and a spare overgrip: sweaty hands make the racket slip.

Know the warning signs

• Muscle cramps are often the first sign. Stop, rest in the shade and drink.
• Feeling faint, weak, dizzy, sick or confused means stop playing straight away. Get somewhere cool, loosen clothing, cool the skin with water and get medical help if it does not pass quickly.
• Watch your partner and opponents too. People often push on to finish a set.

After the game

Keep drinking, cool off before you jump on a motorbike taxi, and eat something. Many Bangkok clubs have cafés; some even have ice baths and saunas.

Planning ahead for the hot months? Our season guide covers the weather through the year. Share your best heat tips with the Bangkok Padel Community on Facebook.

This is general advice, not medical advice. If you have a health condition, ask your doctor.

Sources

• Heat and athletes (US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)