Parents, it’s hot outside. The martial arts we are practicing are physical and done within close proximity of others. It is therefore important that you educate your young ones about personal hygiene. Many of our teens are growing up and need to be taught the proper use of deodorant and antiperspirants. Personal hygiene is crucial in our classes for several reasons. This includes maintaining a clean and safe training environment, preventing the spread of germs and infections, and showing respect for oneself and others. It is especially important when it comes to body oder! No one wants to pair up with or be around another person that stinks of bad body oder!

So, here are some important aspects of personal hygiene to consider before coming to class:

1. Cleanliness: Shower regularly and keep your body clean before attending class. Use underarm deodorant and antiperspirant as well as foot talcum or baby powder. This helps prevent body odor and the buildup of bacteria. By cleansing your body thoroughly and paying attention to areas prone to sweating, such as underarms, feet, and groin you will be a happier student in class.

2. Proper Attire: Wear a clean uniform, pants and/or t-shirt to class. Avoid wearing the same clothing to class without washing it between classes.

3. Nails: Keep your fingernails and toenails trimmed short and clean. Long nails can cause injuries to yourself and training partners, especially during drills. No one wants to be scratched or cut by another persons nails. Clean nails also prevent the accumulation of unsightly dirt and bacteria.

4. Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth and using mouthwash before class. Fresh breath is important when training in close proximity to others. No one likes bad breath!

5. Clean your equipment: Regularly clean your sparring gear, especially your elbow pads and mouth piece.

Remember, personal hygiene is not only important for your own well-being, but also for the health and safety of your training partners! Besides personal hygiene, be sure to keep these important things in mind as well.

• Avoid Training When Sick: If you're feeling unwell or have symptoms of illness, it's best to refrain from attending training sessions. This helps prevent the spread of germs and protects the health of your training partners. Give yourself time to recover and consult a healthcare professional, if necessary.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after class to stay hydrated. Proper hydration helps regulate body temperature and supports overall performance.

By practicing good hygiene habits, you contribute to a healthy and enjoyable training environment for everyone involved. See you on the mats!