Vision Protection Tips Every Tennis Player Should Know
When preparing for a game of tennis, dressing appropriately and having the right equipment is crucial for success on the court, regardless of whether you’re a beginner or not. As we discussed in a previous post, your tennis attire should adhere to the venue’s dress code while allowing for movement and comfort. Meanwhile, tennis shoes, rather than regular sneakers, are ideal for providing necessary support and traction. However, aside from proper attire, there’s another aspect that must be considered – eye protection.
Racquet sports like tennis carry a high risk of eye injuries. Whether it’s having to fend off glare from the sun’s UV rays, a stray ball hurtling toward your face, or an accidental collision with an opponent’s racket, the potential hazards on the court are numerous. Below, we’ll dive deeper into the reasons why vision protection is a must for tennis players and provide tips on keeping your eye safe.
Eye injuries in tennis
Tennis is an exhilarating sport that demands agility, precision, and speed. However, the fast-paced nature of the game also brings with it the risk of eye injuries. From projectile-like balls to swinging racquets, players are exposed to several hazards that can lead to serious eye trauma. In fact, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, tennis ranks among the top sports associated with eye injuries. More specifically, one US study found that between 2000 and 2019, an estimated 15,903 emergency department visits were tennis-related ocular injuries.
In addition to the risk of physical injury, tennis players must also contend with the damaging effects of UV radiation from the sun. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to a range of eye problems, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and even cancer of the eyelids. Given that tennis matches often take place outdoors, players are at heightened risk of UV-related eye damage, which makes sun protection a crucial consideration for players’ eye health.
To ensure optimal vision protection on the court, here are some essential tips that every tennis player should know:
Wear sunglasses
Invest in a pair of high-quality sunglasses that can withstand the demands of the sport. It’s best to look for lenses that offer 100% UV protection to shield your eyes from UV-related damage. For this, you can check out Ray-Ban’s array of men’s and women’s sunglasses. While all of their models come with UV protection, we recommend styles like the Kiliane Bio-Based frames for tennis players. These sunglasses are equipped with polarized lenses, which not only reduce glare but also enhance visual clarity, allowing you to track the ball more effectively.
Use protective eyewear
For tennis players who spend more time on indoor courts, consider wearing protective eyewear specifically designed for racquet sports. In one systematic review, researchers noted that the median percentage of eye injuries that occurred in racquet sports when no protective eyewear was worn was 93%. If you’re in the market for a pair to use during your next match, you can check out sports goggles like the Pentax ZT200. It features foam padding for your forehead, rubberized nose pads, and an adjustable strap.
Stay hydrated
Proper hydration is critical for maintaining optimal eye health. Dehydration can lead to dry eyes, which can cause discomfort and affect one’s ability to focus on the game. Moreover, dehydration can temporarily cloud the cornea and lens, change their shape, and impact the sharpness of one’s vision. To avoid these issues, remember to drink plenty of water before, during, and after each match to stay hydrated and keep your vision sharp. You can bring along an insulated water bottle like the 26-ounce Yeti Rambler to the court so that you always have an adequate supply of cold water.
By incorporating these vision protection tips into your tennis routine, you can safeguard your eyesight and enjoy the game with confidence and clarity. Whether you’re playing for recreation or competing at a professional level, prioritizing eye health is essential for optimal performance on the court.
