With the temperature in Melbourne set to hit 35 degrees today, it can be guaranteed that the Court temperature at the Aus open will be sweltering.  This serves as a valuable reminder to all those participating in physical activity to practice hot weather safety, says Sports Medicine Australia.

Exercising or playing sport in hot or humid conditions can lead to dehydration, heat illness and sometimes the more serious consequence of heat stroke.

Sports Doctor and Sports Medicine Australia spokesperson, Dr Shane Brun said those who are active need to exercise common sense during hot weather.

“At any time the temperature reaches over 30 degrees people need to take certain precautions to avoid putting themselves at risk,” said Dr Brun.

“Simple things such as staying hydrated by drinking water before, during and after exercise; avoiding the hottest part of the day; taking more rest breaks than usual; wearing sun protection and not pushing yourself to the limit all aid in reducing the risk of heat illness.

“There is no point pushing your body to the extreme, it won’t do anything for your fitness and is more likely to impact on your health in a negative way.

“While people may see the Aus Open tennis players battling it out on centre court and strive to emulate their performance, people must remember that they are elite athletes who have trained for these conditions.

“Before being active know what can contribute to heat illness, know what the symptoms are and know how you can avoid it,” said Dr Brun.

Factors contributing to heat illness include: high air temperature, heavy clothing, high humidity, lack of fitness and high exercise intensity.

Symptoms of heat illness include: light-headedness, nausea, headache, confusion, not sweating, and aggressive or irrational behaviour.

- ends -

Media enquiries: Amanda Boshier, National Media Manager,

phone 03 9674 8703 or mobile 0412 224 729.

Sports Medicine Australia has a host of spokespersons available to speak on the issue of heat and tennis injuries in general.