Imagine training under a scorching sun, your body drenched in sweat, your mind racing to keep up. This is the reality for many Pakistani sportswomen. Yet, their determination and resilience have kept them in the game, often turning these challenges into stepping stones. However, as the effects of climate change become more pronounced, a new and formidable obstacle has emerged: the impact of extreme weather on their performance and well-being.

With record-high temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, and increasing environmental degradation, Pakistani sportswomen are now facing a battle against an enemy that threatens not just their careers, but their health and safety.

The average global temperature has risen by about 1.2 degrees Celsius since pre-industrial times, but in Pakistan, the situation is even more severe. The country has been listed among the top 10 most vulnerable to climate change. Pakistani athletes, especially women, often have to train and compete in extreme heat conditions, with temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius in many regions during the summer months.

For sportswomen who already contend with cultural expectations regarding modesty, this heat becomes an even more significant issue. The traditional uniforms worn by many female athletes—often full-sleeved and covering most of the body—compound the problem, making it difficult for them to stay cool during intense physical exertion. This not only affects their performance but also poses serious health risks such as heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and long-term damage to their bodies.

Moreover, the psychological toll of competing in such conditions is immense. The constant pressure to perform, coupled with the fear of heat-related illnesses, can lead to increased stress and anxiety. Many sportswomen report that they feel an added burden of having to prove themselves despite the adverse conditions, which can negatively impact their mental health.

Climate change is also leading to increasingly unpredictable weather patterns, which disrupt the training schedules and competition calendars of sportswomen across the country. Sudden, heavy rains and flooding are becoming more frequent, often leading to the cancellation of events or forcing athletes to train indoors under suboptimal conditions. This is particularly problematic for sports such as cricket, hockey, and athletics, where outdoor practice is crucial.

In regions like Sindh and Punjab, where many of Pakistan’s top sportswomen hail from, erratic weather has made it challenging to maintain a consistent training regime. Flooded grounds and waterlogged tracks mean that athletes either have to miss crucial training sessions or adapt to less effective indoor alternatives. For many, this results in a loss of form, reduced fitness levels, and ultimately, a decline in their competitive edge.

For young girls aspiring to become professional athletes, the situation is even more disheartening. The lack of stable training environments and opportunities to compete can lead to early burnout or force them to abandon their sports dreams altogether.

The health implications of climate change for Pakistani sportswomen are not limited to heat-related illnesses. The increasing prevalence of vector-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue, which are exacerbated by changing weather patterns, pose another significant threat. Female athletes, who spend a considerable amount of time outdoors, are particularly vulnerable to these diseases. Contracting such illnesses can sideline an athlete for weeks or even months, severely impacting their training and career progression.

Additionally, the poor air quality in many urban areas of Pakistan, exacerbated by climate change, is another health concern. Exposure to pollutants during outdoor training can lead to respiratory problems, reduced lung function, and increased susceptibility to infections. For athletes, whose performance relies heavily on cardiovascular fitness, this is a major setback.

While the challenges posed by climate change are daunting, some steps can be taken to mitigate its impact on Pakistani sportswomen. First and foremost, there needs to be a concerted effort to improve sports infrastructure across the country. This includes upgrading facilities to be more resilient to extreme weather conditions, providing better-cooling systems, and ensuring that medical support is readily available during training and competitions.

Additionally, there should be a focus on promoting sustainable practices within the sports community. This could involve educating athletes and coaches about the importance of environmental conservation and encouraging them to adopt eco-friendly practices in their training routines.

On a broader level, there needs to be greater investment in research and development to find innovative solutions to the challenges posed by climate change. This could include developing new sports gear that is better suited to extreme weather conditions or exploring alternative training methods that minimize the impact of heat and pollution on athletes.