Playing Safe in the Heat

As temperatures soar across the country, keeping young athletes safe during summer sports becomes more important than ever. In this timely episode of Healthy Youth Sports, host Eric Utterback is joined by internationally renowned heat stress and youth sports health expert Dr. Michael F. Bergeron. Together, they explore the critical steps parents, coaches, and athletes must take to prevent heat-related illnesses and ensure kids can perform and recover safely in hot weather. Dr. Bergeron, a Visiting Scholar at the University of Hartford and Clinical and Scientific Advisor for the Women's Tennis Association, shares evidence-based strategies to prepare for, compete in, and recover from exertion in the heat. Listeners will learn about hydration techniques, heat acclimatization, warning signs of heat exhaustion, and how to build lasting heat safety habits in youth sports. Whether you're on the sidelines, in the coaching huddle, or helping kids stay safe and strong at home, this episode offers actionable guidance to help athletes thrive — even when the heat is on. Key Topics Covered: Preparing young athletes for summer heat Hydration and acclimatization strategies Recognizing and responding to heat illness Best practices for safe training and recovery Return-to-play protocols after heat-related events The importance of enforcing heat safety policies 💪 Bonus Resource: Want to deepen your impact with youth athletes? Enroll in the ACSM/NYSHSI Youth Fitness Specialist Certificate — a self-paced online course offering 13 CECs and proven strategies to help kids move better, get stronger, and stay active for life. Learn more.