How Oklahoma student-athletes can beat the heat during summer workouts

With fall sports just weeks away, many Oklahoma student-athletes are already training in extreme heat.

From football to cross-country, teams are ramping up practices, but the summer temperatures pose serious health risks.

RELATED STORY: How to spot and prevent heat-related illness

Heat is the No. 3 killer among athletes

Dr. Dustin Cupp, a primary care physician at Utica Park Clinic, warns that heat-related illness ranks as the third leading cause of death among athletes. That’s why he is urging coaches and parents to take the threat seriously.

“Coaches and parents need to recognize the importance of heat-related illness and be prepared to have policies in place,” said Dr. Cupp. “If it’s too hot, move a practice indoors or cancel it. Adults need to take the lead and protect our athletes.”

Monitoring conditions with tools

To better understand the actual impact of heat on the human body, many athletic programs are now using devices called wet bulb globes.

These measure more than just the air temperature. They factor in humidity, wind speed and the sun's effects to determine how stressful conditions are for the body.

This provides coaches with a more accurate picture of when it’s safe—or unsafe—to hold outdoor practice.

EMSA issues medical heat alert

Since July 9, EMSA has been under a Medical Heat Alert in Tulsa and Oklahoma City due to sustained high temperatures and elevated emergency call volume. That alert will stay in effect until call numbers or temperatures drop.

As of this week, EMSA has responded to 173 heat-related calls this year, transporting 116 patients.

How to stay safe during workouts

Dr. Cupp advises athletes and families to take these precautions:

1. Ease into outdoor workouts gradually.
2. Take frequent breaks in the shade.
3. Remove heavy clothing as needed.
4. Stay hydrated with cold water.
5. Recognize signs of heat exhaustion early.

“If we can recognize it, then we can get those athletes into a cooler area, into the shade, remove their clothing, and start rehydrating with cold water,” said Dr. Cupp. “That can really reduce their temperature and save lives.”

As the first day of school approaches, staying heat-aware will be just as important as running drills and building stamina.

Other Heat Safety Stories

🔗 What triggers a heat advisory? EMSA explains as temps climb

🔗 How to exercise safely in Oklahoma's summer heat

🔗 Oklahoma pharmacist highlights medication heat risks

🔗 Summer safety tips for exercising pets in the heat

🔗 How to treat and prevent heat rash from hot weather