The NFL is making waves beyond the football field, expanding its reach and partnerships into the world of skincare. In a recent development, the NFL has unveiled My Block Skin as its official sunscreen partner in the UK and Ireland.
The Sport Science Agency has spoken before about the benefits of sunscreen to athletes, and the need for increased awareness in elite sporting environments. This collaboration marks another significant step in promoting skin protection among athletes and fans alike.
Let's delve into the benefits of this significant partnership.
Sun Exposure and Athlete's Well-being
Despite the many benefits of sunlight for both physiological and psychological well-being, pre-season training and early-season games require special attention from athletes who spend significant time outdoors. In the NFL, teams have to cope with very different climatic conditions throughout the season dependent on which state and games they are playing. As such, any prolonged sun exposure can increase the risk of health issues related to excessive sun exposure, including the long-term risk of skin cancer.
Sunburn is another obvious concern. Not only is it uncomfortable and potentially hazardous to health, but it can also impact an athlete's performance. Sunburn can interfere with the body's ability to regulate temperature and result in increased fluid loss, leading to dehydration.
Research Findings on Solar Radiation
A research group in Japan has revealed that increased solar radiation can negatively affect football performance under conditions where environmental temperature, exercise, and other climatic factors remain constant.
Players covered less ground when it came to walking, jogging, and running, and their heart rates were higher despite lower physical output. This presents a problem for athletes and coaches when training during periods of high sun exposure. Take for example the european football pre-season, the primary goal for clubs and players is to maximise fitness adaptations. Therefore anything hindering this should be avoided. Additionally in early and late season games across europe players will be exposed to high levels of sunlight. If a player's ability to cover ground is affected, it could have a significant impact on the match's outcome.
Sunscreen as a Solution
Given the research findings, players should seek ways to minimise direct sun exposure's negative effects. However, avoiding the sun during training or games isn't a practical option. Therefore, the obvious solution, particularly against UVA and UVB rays, is to wear sunscreen.
Sponsorship with a Purpose
Much like Real Madrid's partnership with Cantabria Labs or Liverpool FC’s with Nivea, the NFL has taken a strategic step to prioritise skin health. and joined forces with My Block Skin to promote a range of skincare products designed to protect the skin.
In the realm of sponsorship, true success is achieved when a product aligns perfectly with the situation it supports. Beyond the benefits for players and teams, this partnership will enhance the fan experience as NFL fans in the UK and Ireland can expect to see My Block Skin products featured prominently at games and events, emphasising the importance of skin protection during outdoor activities.
The message is clear, whether you play for an NFL team or your local park team, wearing sunscreen is a good idea. It will help to protect you against the harmful effects of UV radiation from sunlight, and as has been shown from the research, support performance.
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