The Dangers of “Two-A-Days”

Late every summer, millions of Americans get ready for the start of football season. Whether they follow professional, college, high school, or all the above, the coming months will be filled with game after game. So many people follow the sport that even some high school games are covered on local or even national TV.

Along with all of this attention, however, comes that much more pressure. Football players, no matter what age or skill level, have been under increasing pressure and scrutiny for decades. As a result, many teams began a practice known as “two-a-days,” sometimes also called “hell week.” This refers to a period before the start of the season where teams have multiple training sessions per day. Usually this means two (hence the name), but some professional teams have three sessions.

Understanding the Risk

The dangers of multiple training sessions can be serious. Football is especially popular in the South, where the daytime temperatures and humidity can lead to dehydration and heat stroke. In a state like Florida, where daytime temperatures in late summer can be scorching and the air is always humid, it can be difficult to stay cool and keep hydrated. This might be one reason why a well-known sports drink was invented at the University of Florida.

In order to combat the risks of heat stroke and dehydration, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) has prohibited two-a-days on consecutive days and during the first five days of practice. Restrictions on practices vary from state to state, and often from school to school. A player should never be denied water, since this is the best way to prevent the potentially fatal effects of overheating.

Contact Us

If you or a loved one has fallen ill as a result of excessive outdoor practice, the compassionate Clearwater personal injury lawyers of Tragos & Sartes, PL have the experience to help you. To speak to a lawyer, contact us today at 727-441-9030.