Health & Safety Information
Camrose Pickleball Club Health & Safety Guidelines
Camrose Pickleball Club is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for
all players. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the sport, it's essential to
prioritize your health and safety while having fun on the court.
General Health and Fitness
Pickleball is a fun and active sport, but it also involves quick movements and physical
exertion. To ensure you stay healthy and injury-free, follow these guidelines:
Warm-up and Stretching: Begin with a 5-10 minute warm-up to increase blood
flow to your muscles, and follow up with dynamic stretches targeting your arms,
legs, and back. These stretches involve controlled, active movements that mimic
the motions you’ll be performing during play.
Conditioning: Incorporate regular cardiovascular exercises and strength training
into your fitness routine to improve endurance and prevent injury during play.
Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water and stay hydrated before, during, and after
games, especially in hot or humid conditions.
Safety on the Court
Playing pickleball in a safe manner is essential for preventing injuries and ensuring all
participants enjoy their time on the court.
Court Awareness: Be aware of your surroundings and avoid crossing into other
players' courts. If your ball enters another court, wait until play stops before
retrieving it.
Proper Footwear: It is essential to wear appropriate shoes that offer proper foot
support and are specifically designed for court sports. Standard sneakers or
running shoes may not provide the necessary support for the lateral movements
that are a key aspect of pickleball.
Playing Surface: Ensure the court is free from water and debris, and check for
any cracks or damage that could pose a hazard.
Injury Prevention
To reduce the risk of injuries, follow these best practices:
Correct Form: Focus on proper technique when swinging and moving to
minimize strain on joints and muscles.
Moderation: Avoid overexertion. Take breaks as needed and listen to your body.
If you feel fatigued or notice discomfort, it’s time to rest.
Protective Gear: The use of protective eyewear to shield your eyes from fast-
moving balls or unexpected collisions is highly recommended.
Back Pedaling: Can be dangerous and should be avoided. It increases the risk
of a player losing balance and falling, potentially causing injury. It's safer to pivot
or side-step to reach the ball, keeping your body balanced and stable. By
maintaining proper footwork, players can avoid unnecessary strain and play more
effectively on the court.
Heat Safety
Pickleball is often played outdoors, so it's crucial to be mindful of heat-related risks
during hot weather.
Avoid Peak Sun: Plan your games for early morning or late afternoon to avoid
the midday heat. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Cooling Breaks: Take frequent breaks in shaded areas and use a cold towel or
fan to cool off between games.
Medical Emergencies
In the event of an injury or medical emergency:
Emergency Contacts: Have emergency contact information and local hospital
details on hand. Know where to find the First Aid kit and nearest AED
First Aid Kits: Are readily available at all Camrose Pickleball Club courts.
CPR Training: Designated Camrose Pickleball Club members are trained in
CPR and first aid to assist during emergencies.
Flu Season Precautions
During flu season, it's important to take extra precautions to protect yourself and others
while playing pickleball. Here are some steps you can follow to stay healthy and prevent
the spread of illness:
Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20
seconds, especially before and after playing. If soap and water aren’t available,
use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Avoid Sharing Equipment: Use your own paddles, balls, and water bottles.
Clean and disinfect any shared equipment before and after use to minimize the
risk of spreading germs.
Stay Home if You're Sick: If you feel unwell, have flu-like symptoms, or have
been in contact with someone who is ill, it’s best to rest and recover at home to
avoid spreading the virus to others.
Cough and Sneeze Etiquette: Always cough or sneeze into a tissue or your
elbow, not your hands, to help prevent the spread of germs.
Post-Game Recovery
After a good game, it’s important to cool down properly:
Cool Down: Engage in light stretching or walking to help your muscles recover.
Hydration and Nutrition: Rehydrate and replenish your energy with healthy
snacks or meals.
These health and safety guidelines are designed to help everyone enjoy the game of
pickleball while minimizing the risk of injury or illness. Whether you're enjoying your
game at a Camrose Pickleball Club court or playing elsewhere, always put safety first!