The heatwave currently affecting much of France is prompting health authorities to issue repeated warnings about physical activity. With temperatures already exceeding 35°C in some areas by the end of May, sports medicine doctors and emergency room physicians are alerting the public to the risks associated with strenuous exercise during periods of intense heat. According to Météo-France, this heatwave could last several days, inevitably increasing the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, or heatstroke for both amateur and professional athletes.
Hospital services observe an increase in admissions each year related to physical activity undertaken during heat waves. According to Public Health France, heat waves cause a significant rise in consultations for illness, severe dehydration, or cardiac problems. Specialists remind us that above 30°C, the body struggles more to regulate its internal temperature, particularly during prolonged exertion such as running, football, cycling, or racquet sports played outdoors.
a risk of heatstroke, sometimes fatal
The main danger remains exertional heatstroke, a potentially serious medical emergency. When the body can no longer adequately dissipate the heat produced during physical activity, core body temperature can exceed 40°C (104°F). This can lead to loss of consciousness, seizures, neurological damage, or heart failure. Every year in Europe, several deaths are recorded during sporting activities carried out in high temperatures, particularly during amateur events organized in the middle of the afternoon.
Young adults are not the only ones at risk. Children, the elderly, and even regular athletes can underestimate the effects of heat on the body. Cardiologists remind us that even people in good physical condition can suffer serious health problems during intense exertion in strong sunlight. Medications, lack of sleep, alcohol, or insufficient hydration further exacerbate the physiological risks.
adjusted schedules and increased hydration
Faced with this situation, several sports federations and local authorities are already adapting their practices. Some amateur tournaments are being moved to the evening, training sessions are being cancelled, and several towns are temporarily closing outdoor sports facilities during the hottest hours. Doctors advise prioritizing physical activity early in the morning or after 20 p.m., when temperatures begin to drop.
Health recommendations also emphasize the importance of drinking regularly, even before feeling thirsty, avoiding prolonged exertion, and wearing light, breathable clothing. Experts also remind us that during a heatwave, temporarily reducing physical activity is not a sign of weakness but an essential preventative measure to protect our health.
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