TYLER, Texas (KLTV) – With volleyball underway and football camps set to kick off next week, athletic trainers are already hard at work across East Texas.

“Our day starts about an hour before practice starts,” said Ngan Morris, a trainer at Tyler High School. “The kids come in, whether they need to get taped or do preventive maintenance.”

Morris says it’s important to not go 100% at first, but increase your activity level as you get back into the swing of things.

“You can’t take a break for three months, and expect to start off where you left in May, and expect to have the same results,” said Morris.

Dehydration is, of course, the most important thing to look out for this time of year if you’re practicing outside. Staying ahead of thirst is important.

“If you wait to start drinking (when) you’re thirsty, you’re well behind the power curve,” said Dr. William Garre, a family physician with CHRISTUS Health.

Morris says it’s important to cool down, even if you’re tired after practice.

“Too many kids don’t properly recover, and don’t properly stretch or cool down after, a workout. I know they’re tired,” said Morris. “But some of the things we do is we offer ice baths for all of our student athletes when they’re done, stretching. The most important part is refueling; you have to prepare your body for the next day.”

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