As the Women's Euro 2025 tournament kicks off in Switzerland, England's Lionesses are facing not only fierce competition but also scorching temperatures. With heat warnings in place for the initial days of the tournament, the team is employing a variety of strategies to combat the heat and maintain peak performance. These measures range from high-tech solutions to simple, refreshing treats.
To mitigate the impact of the heat, England's players are utilizing cooling vests during training sessions. These vests, often employing technologies like HyperKewl, work by evaporative cooling, keeping the body at an ideal temperature. The HyperKewl system locks in moisture and can provide a 6°C to 12°C temperature reduction for up to eight hours, without wetting the clothes underneath. This allows players to stay cool and comfortable, even in the hottest and most humid conditions.
Beyond cooling vests, the Lionesses are also incorporating cryotherapy into their recovery routines. Cryotherapy involves exposing the body to extremely cold temperatures, either locally with ice packs or cooling sprays, or in a cryotherapy chamber. This process helps to reduce inflammation, muscle soreness, and fatigue, allowing players to recover more quickly between training sessions and matches.
In addition to these high-tech methods, England is also turning to a classic summer treat: slush puppies. These icy drinks help to lower the body temperature and provide a refreshing burst of energy. The team is also filling their regular drinks with crushed ice to keep them cooler for longer. England head coach Sarina Wiegman revealed that the Lionesses are sipping slushies and being encouraged to manage their exposure to the heat to cope with the heatwave. The team also utilizes ice-cold towels during training sessions to help players cool down quickly.
These comprehensive heat対策 strategies demonstrate England's commitment to ensuring the well-being and performance of their players at Euro 2025. By combining cooling vests, cryotherapy, and refreshing treats, the Lionesses are well-equipped to battle the heat and focus on defending their title. Wiegman stated that the team has protocols and strategies in place, and those who have been around longer are familiar with playing in such circumstances. She also expressed gratitude for the support from the federation in providing the resources needed to prepare for the tournament, including the training pitch, gym, and cooling strategies.
As the tournament progresses, the effectiveness of these strategies will be closely monitored. With temperatures expected to remain high, England's ability to adapt and overcome the heat will be crucial to their success at Euro 2025.
