Top 10 Tips for Staying Safe and Cool While Playing Beach Volleyball
1. Good Planning Goes a Long Way
Stock up on sunscreen before your trip—it can be pricey or unavailable at your destination. Choose your favorite sunblock and pack enough: one 200 ml bottle per person per week is a good rule of thumb. Sunscreen is essential for beach volleyball players since courts are rarely shaded. Sweating, rolling in the sand, quick dips in the water, or rinsing off between games can all wear off your protection.
2. Avoid the Midday Sun
The sun is strongest around midday. Try to schedule your games for earlier or later in the day to avoid sunburn or heatstroke.
3. The Towel Trap
Wiping off sweat with a towel during a game is common, but it can also remove your sunscreen. Look for quick-absorbing and long-lasting sun protection that you can easily reapply during breaks without affecting your performance.
4. Watching Opponents? Don’t Skip Sunscreen!
Even if you’re in the shade watching other games, about 50% of UV rays can still reach your skin. Always apply sunscreen, even when shaded.
5. Use Breaks Wisely
During every break, seek out shade to let your skin recover from constant sun exposure.
6. Sand, Sand, Sand...
Sand gets everywhere—your hair, bag, room, and even your bed. To reapply sunscreen effectively, rinse off with a refreshing shower product like our Cooling Mint Shower Gel to remove sand before applying sunscreen again.
7. Keep a Cool Head
Preventing sunburn is just one part of the battle—don’t forget to protect your head from heatstroke. Wearing a hat might not be the most stylish choice, but it’s essential. Overheating can irritate the meninges and even damage your brain. Always wear a hat during games.
8. Hard-to-Reach Areas
Even the most flexible player struggles to apply sunscreen to certain spots. Don’t be shy—ask a teammate for help. It’s completely normal and expected in this sport.
9. The Right Outfit
While playing in a bikini or shorts might show off your beach body, it’s not ideal for sun protection. Choose clothes made from dense materials like polyester for better coverage. While cotton is cooler and prevents heat buildup, it doesn’t offer UV protection. Opt for dark-colored, loose-fitting shirts for comfort and better sun coverage.
10. Stay Hydrated
To avoid dehydration, drink as much water as possible during breaks. Staying hydrated not only protects your health but also improves your performance.