Many teams have their own dance rooms, where they can hold summer rehearsals in air-conditioned splendor. However, unless the room is the size of a gridiron and has bona-fide grass or Astroturf flooring, there is no substitute for practicing outdoors on the football field.
But it's sooooo hot outside! And that it is! According to Associated Press reports, President Clinton has declared 11 southern and southwestern states a disaster area due to heat and drought. Texas is fairing the worst, with its 100+ stretches threatening to top 1980 as being the hottest summer ever. Oklahoma is also feeling the heat, as are part of Louisiana and Arkansas. This summer is a scorcher, but the show must go on! (Pardon the excessive clichés!)
So... how to practice without keeling over from heat stroke?
The American Red Cross offers some helpful advice for dealing with the hot weather. Of course, make sure you DRINK plenty of water and/or fluids like Gatorade or Powerade during practice to avoid dehydration. My high school drill team traditionally exchanges big and little sister thermoses filled with ice water on the first day of summer band.
Another resource for surviving the heat wave are Coastalnet's Heat Safety Tips.
Of course, wear your SUNSCREEN. Outdoor summer practice is an opportune time to acquire that dark, back-to-school tan, but burns aren't fun (especially when your leotard is chaffing it). The general rule is SPF 15 for good protection from ultraviolet rays.
Wear LIGHT-colored leotards and bikers if possible. If you don't have to wear black thick pants, DON'T. Darker colors attract heat. Also while selecting your summer practice wardrobe, don't rule out sunglasses and hats that will STAY ON your head during practice--but don't get too expensive. If your $80 sunglasses DO fall off, it will be a sad day. You can probably find some inexpensive sunglasses with UV protection at any department or grocery store. My high school drill team has also exchanged decorated hats in the past, another gift idea to make the heat more bearable.
EAT WELL! Don't expect your body to perform under stressful conditions without fueling it. The more energy you have, the better your performance. Of course, downing a bowl of hot chili before rehearsal might not digest too well when you're moving around a lot, so you might want to stick with less spicy foods if you know you'll be dancing soon afterward.
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