ARG - Argentina made to sweat Beijing build-up

MAR DEL PLATA (Olympics) – Argentina have been sweating over the fitness of Manu Ginobili ahead of this summer’s Beijing Games.

Ginobili is trying to recover from an ankle injury in time to play at the Olympics.

On Tuesday, they were literally made to sweat to prepare for the hot conditions they are likely to encounter in China.

Sergio Hernandez’s team trained in temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees (Celsius) to simulate the conditions of the Wukesong stadium.

Additionally, players wore special patches on their arms as scientists from the Gatorade Sport Science Institute, according to a statement on the Argentina Basketball Federation website, “measured the quantity and the composition of their perspiration” to come up with the best strategy to combat hydration.

While Argentina are in Mar del Plata, they will take on FIBA Americas rivals Mexico in a friendly.

Forward Andres Nocioni, a member of Argentina’s gold-medal winning side at the Olympics four years ago, admits the early days of the national team workouts have been tough.

"It's normal that at this stage of the preparations we face pressure but that is positive,” he said.

“We have new players in the team and luckily, there is no jealousy which makes everything easier.”

FIBA