How do I keep training with jumper's knee through Ramadan and the Qatar summer?

Why these seasons cause flares

Tendons lose some of their capacity when load drops for several weeks. In Qatar, training often falls away during Ramadan and the hottest months, then leagues, padel tournaments and school sport restart quickly in the cooler season. Going straight back to full jumping and sprinting is a classic way to overload the patellar tendon.

During Ramadan

• Keep two short strength sessions a week, such as split squats, leg press or wall sits, rather than stopping completely
• Train after iftar, once you have eaten and rehydrated, or a little before suhoor if that suits you
• Avoid intense jumping sessions while fasting and dehydrated
• Accept lower volume; the aim is to maintain, not progress

Isometric holds take only a few minutes and can be fitted in easily.

Through the summer

Heat makes outdoor sessions short and irregular. Moving strength and court sessions indoors, or to early morning and late evening, keeps training consistent. Hydration matters, and heavy fatigue in the heat can change landing mechanics and add stress to the tendon.

Coming back afterwards

Plan a two- to four-week rebuild before matches: strength first, then light jumping, then sport drills, adding volume step by step. Morning stiffness below the kneecap that lasts longer than usual is a sign to slow down. If a flare does not settle within a few weeks, Dr. Gelber at Aman Hospital in Doha can assess the tendon and adjust the programme.