TLC for Your Judo Gi: A Little Love Goes a Long Way!
How to keep your Gi safe and sanitary!
At DSM Judo Academy, we know that a well-maintained Gi isn’t just a clean uniform—it’s an essential tool for your training. Your Gi works hard for you, so it’s only fair you show it a little TLC! Here’s how you can keep your Judo Gi in top shape, so it’s ready for every throw, roll, and grapple.
Step 1: Pre-Treat Stains (No One Likes a Dirty Collar! )
Before you toss your Gi in the wash, give it some love by inspecting it for stains or tough spots, especially around the collar and armpits (where sweat loves to hang out!). If you see a stain, grab a mild stain remover or make a paste of baking soda and water. Apply it to the stain, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, and voilà—ready to wash!
Step 2: Wash Separately (Your Gi Deserves a Solo Ride )
Always wash your Gi separately from other clothes. Not only will this avoid lint transfer (goodbye, fuzz!) but it also helps prevent damage to the fabric. Turn your Gi inside out to protect the fabric and patches, and use cold water to avoid shrinkage. Keep it cool—your Gi will thank you!
Step 3: Gentle Detergent (Be Kind to Your Skin & Your Gi )
Use a mild, fragrance-free detergent that’s easy on both your skin and your Gi. Avoid bleach or fabric softeners—they can weaken those tough fibers over time. We want your Gi to be as strong as your throws, not falling apart after a few washes!
Step 4: Spin Gently (No Need for a Wild Ride )
Set the washing machine to a gentle cycle—your Gi doesn’t need to go on a rollercoaster ride! Don’t overload the machine—let the jacket and pants move around with room to spare, reducing wear and tear.
Step 5: Air Dry (Sunlight Is Not Your Friend )
Say it with us: Never use the dryer! Heat from the dryer breaks down fabric fibers faster than you can say "Ippon!" Hang your Gi on a sturdy hanger or drying rack in a well-ventilated area. Remember, direct sunlight may weaken the fabric and cause fading, so keep it cool and shady.
Step 6: Air Dry with Care (The Right Conditions = A Happy Gi! )
Temperature Matters: Aim to air dry your Gi in temperatures between 50–75°F (10–24°C). This prevents moisture retention in cold weather and overheating in extreme warmth.
Avoid Freezing Temps: If it's below 40°F (4°C), your Gi may not dry properly, leading to musty smells. Keep it indoors in a well-ventilated room in these conditions.
Watch for Heat: Temperatures above 85°F (29°C) can damage the fabric over time. If you're drying in warmer weather, hang your Gi in the shade to protect it from the sun’s harsh rays.
Ventilation is Key: Whether inside or outside, make sure there’s good airflow around your Gi. Open a window, use a fan—anything to keep the air circulating and your Gi drying evenly.
Bonus Tip: Show Your Gi Some TLC Regularly!
Just like you take care of your body for peak performance, your Gi deserves the same care to keep it looking fresh and lasting longer. A little TLC after every training session can go a long way in making sure your Gi is always ready for the next class!
Rokkyu Duo Clean Up at 2025 Governor’s Cup
From Left to Right - Kasten Lappe, Jon Milledge, Ian Schaff
On March 15th, 2025, two yellow belts or “rokkyu” from the Des Moines Judo Academy made their competitive debut at the Iowa Governor’s Cup Tournament, which was hosted by Teikiatsu Judo in Ames, Iowa. Adult competitor turnout was a sharp decline from 2024, during which sensei and academy founder Bret Parkhill made his final regular appearance coaching. Despite adult participation being thinned by scheduling and recent injuries, Karsten Lappe and Jon Milledge made up for quantity with quality.
Karsten, is a young man of 22 years of age who attends most, if not all, weekday classes at our dojo and occasional Saturday open mats. Standing 6’7”, Karsten fought in the 220lbs+ senior men’s open rank, winning both his matches against the green belt, or “yonkyu,” Brent Shipley from Sempai Judo. Karsten’s first match was won by application of the “renraku waza'“ (combination technique; when two or more attacks are made in sequence) Uchi-Mata, followed by O-Soto-Gari, earning an “Ippon” (full point, which wins a match). His second match was won by scorring Ippon via “Osae Komi” (pin), a varient of Yoko-Shiho-Gatame (commonly referred to as side control in jujitsu), after taking his opponent to the ground without scoring, securing the gold medal for his division. A southpaw, Karsten is known in our club for his explosive strength, preference for extremely high collar grips, and his love of Uchi-Mata, which he’s striven to improve since he first arrived at the Des Moines Judo Academy.
Jon Milledge, a man of 35 who stands at approximately 5’8”, fought in both the senior men’s middle weight novice, and the senior men’s 161lbs & Under open rank divisions. Jon, an mma fighter in the process of winding down his mma career, is one of a pair of far travelling Judoka who consistently grace our dojo at Saturday open mats and the occasional Thursday class. Jon fought five total matches between the two divisions. While Jon lost his first match by throw for Ippon, he went on to only have one more loss for the day, by submission while attempting to pass guard. Jon’s extensive drilling of “ashi waza” (leg/foot techniques), particularly foot sweeps, showed, as he scored “Waza Ari” (half point, two of which are required to win a match) by both Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi, and De Ashi Barai. While he did win one additional match by submission, the highlight of the adult competition of this tournament was an Ippon scored using Nidan Ko-Soto-Gari as a counter to Uchi-Mata, further demonstrating Jon’s ashi waza dominance. Sensei Parkhill, reviewing a video of the match, commented that the counter was “a thing of beauty!” Jon took gold in the open rank, and silver in the novice.
Despite being the only adult judoka to take to the mat or “tatami” to represent our Academy at this tournament, they were not alone. Ian, Jon’s long time training partner and travelling companion, was also present to give his support despite being wounded. Jon’s family was also present to cheer him on, and were enthusiastic, if frequently confused. The three are seen together in the cover photo for this entry, celebrating their victory.