English edition

"The Importance of Preparing Before Riding"

Recently, I've been pondering how to deal with the current heat wave.

A friend from the equestrian circle recommended using an "ice vest".

I had only been considering maintenance of my body before and after riding, but I've now realized that I must not neglect my preparation

just before riding in Japan's heat. Following the advice, I purchased a lightweight ice vest that lasts up to four hours.

Before riding, I hydrate thoroughly, put on the ice vest, and then wear an air jacket over it. (As a senior, such preparation is necessary to

prevent heat stroke.) After riding, I replenish fluids again and change my sweat-drenched shirt for a different one (to prevent a summer

cold).

My horse friend is looking for cooling pads to use inside the helmet. Apparently, it's important that the pad is soft and flexible, and doesn't leak water when it melts. Interesting!

Preparation is always key in everything, isn't it?

Today, I'm preparing for tomorrow's "Sumida River Fireworks Festival". I'm making insect repellent spray for 15 to 20 people.

I plan to prepare purified water and anhydrous ethanol in the morning. I have the essential oils and spray bottles ready. I'll try to make it and test if the spray bottles are easy to use. If not, I might have to go to "Muji Food".

Sitting on a blue sheet can be tough on our senior backs, so I'll bring the air cushion that proved its worth at the "Pink Floyd" outdoor

concert.

Yesterday, the university equestrian team held a summer camp at our riding club. They don't use air jackets and seem to ride quite a bit in a day.

Oh, there she is, the girl who fell off her horse last week. She's bouncing back, riding second in line.

Watching her, I thought, youth is indeed wonderful. It seems there's nothing they fear.

How wonderful it is to be young!

-English edition