Cold Hands, Warm Scores – Gaming Expert’s Top 7 Tips for Maintaining Dexterity During Winter
Ezxcited young casual man using smartphone over blue backgrpound, playing games
As the winter season sets in and temperatures drop, a lot of gamers struggle with cold hands. Whether you’re a casual console player or a competitive PC gamer, cold hands can significantly impact your gaming performance.
The effects of cold hands are twofold – they make it difficult to control your controller or keyboard fully, and they slow down your reaction time. According to Al Alof, a gaming expert and spokesperson for Chick’s Gold, an online gaming marketplace, “Cold hands can be a major hindrance for gamers because they’re so important to success.”
Your hands are your only connection to the game, so if they aren’t functioning at 100%, gamers can’t expect the best results. Knowing how to combat this issue can keep gamers competing at their best, and it only takes a few expert tips.
Here, gaming expert Alof explains the necessary tips to keep your fingers nimble and your scores high.
- Use Hand Warmers
These come in plenty of different shapes and sizes; some are one-time-use, while others are rechargeable. Keep a few hand warmers in your gaming bag or pockets and use them between matches to warm up your hands and fingers.
“Your tolerance of cold will determine which hand warmer best suits you and your gaming style. Be sure to assess each and try them out if possible,” says Alof.
- Wear Gloves Designed for Gaming
Look for gloves that are specifically designed for gaming, with anti-slip grips and compatibility with touchscreens. These will keep your hands warm and provide a better grip on your controllers or keyboard. “Gaming gloves are becoming more popular as they provide warmth, stability, and consistency in all temperatures,” states Alof.
- Perform Hand Stretches
Like any other muscle, your hand muscles can get stiff and tense in the cold. The maximum dynamic work temperature for hand muscles is 38 °C, so anything under that will prevent you from getting the most from your hands.
Alof recommends, “Take breaks between games to stretch your fingers and wrists, focusing on gentle movements that promote flexibility and reduce tension.”
- Stay Hydrated
Hydration can contribute to maintaining good blood circulation, which helps keep your hands warm and agile. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption, which can dehydrate you.
“Sweating in a cold room is not uncommon due to the intensity of the games being played these days. This draws blood from your extremities while also dehydrating you – a double strike,” warns Alof.
- Use a Warm-up Routine
“Professional gamers often have a warm-up routine before a match to get their hands and fingers ready for intense gameplay,” Alof informs us. Let this be a sign to consider implementing a short warm-up routine of hand stretches and movements before starting your gaming session in the winter.
- Keep Your Gaming Area Warm
It’s not just your hands that need to stay warm but also the environment you’re playing in. If you have control over it, keep your gaming area well-heated to prevent your hands from getting too cold while gaming.
- Consult a Doctor if Necessary
If you experience any pain or discomfort in your hands while gaming in the cold, it’s best to consult a doctor. They can provide proper guidance and treatment to avoid injuries or long-term consequences.
Al Alof, spokesperson for Chick’s Gold, commented:
“Professional gamers often stress the importance of hand care in maintaining peak performance and preventing injuries. They usually incorporate hand care routines and precautions into their training to make sure their hands are in the best condition for gaming.
“As gamers, you should prioritize your hand care and follow these tips to keep your hands warm and agile during the colder months if you plan on playing your best. Otherwise, maintain proper hand healthcare so they are healthy for aspects of your life as well. Gaming is only a small portion of what our hands are used for; take good care of them.”
