Are you aware that playing tennis with an improperly stringed racquet and worn-out shoes puts you at nearly the same risk of injury as playing soccer without shin guards? Injuries are frequently caused by using the incorrect — or improperly fitting — gear.
Competitive and highly active sports are pretty enjoyable. They keep you healthy through exercise, increase your social circle, and teach you a lesson or two about camaraderie. If you’ve never tried joining a sport, it’s time to consider one that will interest you. Although it may take plenty of determination and practice, it’s the fun that matters at the end of the day. Here are a few tips to help you get through workouts.
Get In Shape
Getting in shape will give you less difficulty starting the season for your sport. You can start by creating a training plan and doing it at least three times a week. If nothing comes to mind in coming up with various exercises for the list, you can ask for professionals such as your gym trainers or coaches for a heads up. If going out to exercise takes plenty of time out of your hands, you can download exercise apps online that you can use in the comfort of your home.
For extra motivation, write down the goals you want to achieve for the week and the exercise activities you plan on doing. Make sure to stick to your scheduled workout time. Doing this consistently without breaking your schedule will keep you motivated and, at the same time, bind you to your exercise routine. It also helps you trace the activities you finished. If you find a specific workout enjoyable, pin a note on it to include it in your weekly plan.
Set Realistic Goals
As you ready yourself for the beginning of the season, always keep your goals in mind. Although what you want to achieve may seem general, such as getting accepted in the team or staying fit. But keep in mind that specific and smaller goals are quicker to grab, eventually leading you to your bigger goal. Write all your goals down and discuss them with your coach or trainer to help them guide you. Once you’ve reached them, set another one forward. Having dreams can keep you motivated!
Check Your Gear
If you haven’t played in a while, check all your gear and equipment to see if they still function correctly. Your shin protectors are just as important as wearing a Spyder ski jacket for kids when skiing. When trying out a new sport, always ask for advice on the appropriate apparel and equipment necessary. You can borrow from friends and relatives or buy used gear for cost-effectiveness. If you do, make sure they are clean and sanitary enough to use. You can ask your coach for a second opinion if you’re doubtful.
Consider Joining a Sports Camp
To have adequate preparation, you can join a sports camp. They guide both novice and experienced players to improve their skills before the season begins. College players, trainers, and other professionals usually handle these camps. They typically start with drill sessions and progress to scrimmages towards the end.
Drills improve skills while scrimmaging with other teams allows you to put those skills to the test. Scrimmages let you experience the game first-hand on what it’s going to be like once on the field. Plenty of universities and schools offer sports camps or clinics to practice their skills during the summer.
See Your Doctor
If you think you’re the type to be sickly, or if you have been sedentary for quite a long while, it’s best to see your doctor first. Also, your school might want to have all the players get a physical exam first before permitting any of you to play. Most of the time, the start of the season is where doctors are busiest since players are all getting check-ups.
You can settle an appointment before the sports season begins. This will give your doctor adequate time to prepare your paperwork and start on time with your season. If you wear glasses, there’s a big possibility of them falling off as you make quick movements. It’s recommended to visit an eye doctor and have you wear the appropriate protective eyewear.
One last thing, when training with your team or by yourself, always include a time to rest. You should have at least one or two days of rest in a week from aggressive training. Also, take two months off as a break every year to prevent recurrent injuries. Your body is much like a battery; it also needs to recharge. Too much activity will cause it to break down.
