24/06/2026
We're being asked by lots of clubs whether they should remain open during the current hot weather. ☀️
As with most things, the answer is: it depends.
If you're training in a venue that is already extremely hot, where mats and equipment are becoming uncomfortable to use, and you're expecting a room full of children who may already be tired, dehydrated, or struggling to regulate their temperature, it may be sensible to consider postponing, adapting, or cancelling sessions.
Conversely, if you're fortunate enough to have a well-ventilated or air-conditioned facility, and you take appropriate steps to account for hydration, rest periods, and the needs of your students, training may still be entirely appropriate.
Ultimately, the key question is whether the environment and activity remain safe for those taking part.
In the event of an incident, insurers will typically ask the same questions regardless of provider: Was the activity reasonably safe? Would 'the prudent uninsured' have made the same decision? Were appropriate steps taken to manage foreseeable risks?
Every club, venue, and community is different. As an organisation, we're leaving the decision to individual instructors, who are best placed to assess local conditions and the needs of their students.
If you do decide to cancel or modify a session, how you compensate students is entirely up to your club. Some instructors may choose to run an alternative activity, invite students to attend another session, extend a future class, offer account credit, or simply make a decision based on what works best for their members. There is no one-size-fits-all approach.
Please err on the side of caution, particularly where children, older adults, or anyone with additional health considerations may be affected. A modified session, shorter class, or cancelled lesson is always preferable to an avoidable medical emergency.
Finally, this is a good opportunity to refresh yourself on the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat exhaustion can often be managed with prompt action, cooling, and hydration. Heat stroke, however, is a medical emergency requiring immediate assistance. Ensuring all coaches and volunteers can recognise the difference is an important part of keeping students safe. Our new First Aid CPD within MyBMABA includes guidance on recognising and responding to both conditions.
Stay safe, stay hydrated, and look after your students. ☀️
