Need xl or xxl elect foil jacket for my son

[marla]

Hi, My son (13) has been loving his class offered through our city. However, they do not have an electric foil jacket that fits him. I can't really spend $138 to buy him a new one right now-at least until I know this is not a fad. He is overweight a little now 5'9-220. I don't want to see him get any worse.
Where can I look? Any other ideas? Thank you very much!!!! Marla

[cowpaste]

In general, lamés (electric jackets) sizes are not specified as xl or xxl. The manufacturers will usually cut the lamés to specific sizes and give them numbers like 42 or 48 or 52. It varies greatly from company to company. There are many online websites that sell lamés, but my favorite company is www.thefencingpost.com . You should order by phone, and if you mention the website, they will give you a 20% discount. They sell a brand of lamé called "JL," which I highly suggest due to its value per dollar ratio. With the discount, it comes out to be $52 (plus S&H). Take your son's measurements, and give those measurements to the person on the phone. I'm sure they will be able to find something for him.

Also, I think it is important to keep in mind that fencing alone is not a very effective way to lose weight. It is a very fun physical activity that will defiinitely help, but in addition to fencing, perhaps you can convince him to perform regular cardiovascular exercises (to help his heart and stamina) and weight lifting (to increase metabolism and confidence).

[rtran]

Originally Posted by cowpaste

Also, I think it is important to keep in mind that fencing alone is not a very effective way to lose weight.

I definately second this. If you go to many senior tournaments you'll see quite a few guys with pot bellies (myself included) and these are guys that have been fencing for years.

[marla]

Yes, I agree too. We- my son and I have joined a local gym as well. Plus he's getting active in Boy Scouts again! Thank you for web site-This is a big relief-I'm doing anything I can to keep him active. Now if only I could get him to do my favorite sport-biking-Oh well, one step at a time :-) But then again...fencing does look kind of fun!