IV Therapy for Tennis Players: Hydration, Recovery, and Performance

Tennis is an intense sport often played in hot, humid and sweaty conditions. Players can experience significant fluid loss during long matches. A minimum loss of body weight (1–2%), in the form of sweat, can measurably reduce performance and concentration. That is why athletes are advised to sip water or sports drinks regularly on court and replace 120–200% of fluid lost after play. In most cases, drinking electrolyte beverages is enough to restore balance. However, intravenous (IV) infusion provides a rapid alternative. 

During IV therapy, a saline solution with added electrolytes flows straight into the bloodstream, quickly boosting blood volume and sodium levels. This bypasses the gut and can rehydrate an exhausted player faster than drinking fluids alone when time is short. For example, if an athlete is nauseous and cannot hold down fluids, IV fluid administration can be medically administered for immediate rehydration. In extreme cases of severe dehydration or heat illness, IV therapy has long been used to correct fluid and electrolyte deficits. 

After a hard match, tennis players need to repair microscopic muscle damage and replenish nutrients. Although protein intake is beneficial in terms of muscle recovery, the first source of replenishment should consist of a high glycemic index fluid. For about four decades, researchers have discovered that certain amino acids (BCAA’s) contributed to not only the rebuilding of muscle tissue but also added energy. These amino acids (leucine, isoleucine and valine), in addition to minerals such as magnesium (for cramp prevention) and vitamin C (an antioxidant) can all be added to an IV for quicker replenishment and recovery.

Photo credit (via Unsplash): Jim Sung

It is important to note that multiple studies show that oral protein intake works just as well as IVs for rebuilding muscle tissue. In other words, eating or drinking adequate protein (shakes or meals) will typically suffice for recovery. Still, an IV drip can be a convenient all-in-one “shot” of fluids plus nutrients when an athlete’s appetite or digestion is impaired after play. Overall, proper nutrition (carbs and protein) and hydration remain the foundation of muscle recovery, with IV therapy as an optional supplement rather than a replacement.

Intense tennis also depletes vitamins and electrolytes that fuel energy production. Many IV “cocktails” include B-complex vitamins, vitamin C, magnesium, and zinc. B vitamins in particular are co-factors in cellular energy metabolism. While many athletes use oral vitamin supplements, IV infusion can deliver the same vitamins directly into the blood, ensuring 100% absorption. Anecdotally, athletes report feeling more alert and recovered after a vitamin-loaded IV. For example, a so-called “Myers’ cocktail” IV (magnesium, B vitamins, vitamin C, etc.) is often promoted for reducing fatigue and muscle soreness. However, large trials of IV vitamins in healthy athletes are scarce. We do know that severe deficiencies (like low iron or B12) must be corrected quickly, and IV iron or B12 infusions are prescribed under medical supervision. It is important to remember that IV vitamins may theoretically boost energy metabolism and recovery, but they should complement and not replace a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, and protein.

Ultimately, tennis performance and injury prevention hinge on staying well-hydrated and recovered. By rapidly normalizing plasma volume, IV hydration helps maintain blood pressure and temperature regulation, which in turn keeps muscles and organs well oxygenated. In practice, this may help a player feel better-prepared for the next match. Quick rehydration also helps prevent heat cramps and heat exhaustion: even a 3% body-weight loss greatly raises the risk of heat illness. The LA Times once reported that tennis great John McEnroe requested an IV drip after a 5-hour match in 124°F heat. Not unusual, if not for that fact that he showed no medical need. This certainly illustrates how professional players have used IV as a rapid recovery tool for quite some time.

Photo credit (via Unsplash): insung yoon

In clinic or training settings, an IV drip can be a practical boost between matches or during multi-day tournaments, ensuring a player’s fluid and nutrient levels stay topped-off. By reducing fatigue and maintaining electrolyte balance, IV therapy may indirectly lower the chance of muscle strains or heat-related injuries. As always, any IV treatment should be done under medical guidance, alongside adequate sleep, nutrition, and adequate hydration (pre, during, and post competition).

At Boca Cryo, (Boca Raton, Florida) we have recently added infusion therapy. It has become a regular routine for many competitive athletes as well as weekend warriors. Our medically supervised IV treatments include protocols focused on: athletic recovery, enhancing sleep, decreasing stress, strengthening immunity, decreasing inflammation and improving performance.

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Written by Ian Pyka. Photo credit (top via Unsplash): Hiroshi Tsubono