summer is here

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[justin]

The UK is currently being hit by some very hot weather and my aikido gi feels like a microwave I have a karate gi which I often wear as that seems to soak up the heat much better, any tips and suggestions would be gratefully received as what you use when the hot weather sets in.

[Tambreet]

Our senseis tell us to drink lots of water throughout the day. If you wait until you are already hot and thirsty during training - or even just before class - it's too late.

Also I think breathing becomes even more important when you have the heat to deal with.

[Ron Tisdale]

I usually don't wear much under my dogi, but I have tried the winter under armour when it's cold, and it is wonderfull. I hear they have a summer version, and that it works well to keep the body cool. You might try that...

Hydration all day before training is a key. You should be peeing clear before training as an indicator that you are hydrated.

Best,
Ron

[Amir Krause]

Coming from relatively hot weather area, and without air conditioning in the dojo, I would like to join the previous suggestion : drink a lot, all day long, and particularly in the few hours before practice.

Do not wait for the feeling of thirst, most of us miss this completely.


Amir

[justin]

thank you all i shall try the water suggestion as suggested.

[Chuck Clark]

Our dojo in Tempe, Arizona has swamp coolers (evaporative coolers) that knock the heat down about 10 or 15 degrees on average (until the monsoon season and then they won't work at all). Last night the outside temperature was 111 at 6 pm. This is not unusual and during the day it's often hotter and very low humidity. Water and moving air in the dojo is the key. Hydration all during the day and at least two or three times during our 2.5 hour practice keeps us relatively healthy.

[Jill N]

Hi all:

In the dojo I practice in we have a policy of water breaks when you need them. And a fan. Under armour or any of the new "wicking" undershirts will help some. I have a couple and they do help. Also, we will practice in a way that avoids overheating, like working in a line of 4 or 5 instead of one on one when it is very hot. You can learn by watching others, and it gives you a chance to cool down between the bouts of exerting yourself. Stop if you have to. It's just plain stupid to keep going without water and without a break until you get sick.


e ya later
Jill.