Athletic Conditioning
The truth is that most athletes could make more gains and improvement in their sport if they would take some simple and important steps. Whether you are a runner, cyclist, basketball player or figure skater, just training at your sport is not enough to fully excel. It is somewhat like a puzzle, without all the pieces it will never be complete. The human body can be unbelievable, if it is treated with respect.
The first and most important step is the fuel you consume. Good nutrition is critical whether you are an athlete or not. Our bodies have been designed to heal and repair themselves, but without proper nutrition our bodies cannot regenerate and have healthier cells. As an athlete, you must focus on the changes that take place after the workout. The real growth does not come from the stress of the training but the body’s response to the stress. Too much stress can actually break your body down, rather than build it up. Smart nutrition is crucial for peak performance and recovery. A diet high in fruits and vegetables is very important. They are packed with nutrients, which helps build strong bones, boosts your immune system and helps in recuperation. Many athletes seem to be concerned about how much protein and carbohydrates they have in their diet, but not on the types of food that are packed with nutrients. Simple foods that digest easily are best before a workout, but it is important to look at the whole picture and make sure you are getting the nutrition you need. It is also important to note that modern technology has introduced the convenience of processed foods, such as sports bars and other related products, but they do not have optimum nutrition for the demands of today or athletic training.
All sports require a certain amount of conditioning, and it is important to educate yourself about what is needed to be at your best. Core training is important for all sports and everyday life. A medicine or exercise ball can be used quite effectively for this type of training. If you have a strong core you will greatly reduce the risk of injury. Pilates is also a way to develop optimal core control, which is needed for certain sports. It builds strength, increases joint mobility and flexibility. Sport-specific exercises involving weights and/or bands can be incorporated to strengthen the entire body. Remember, your body functions as a whole and it should be trained the same way. Warming up is also important. When your muscles are cold, they are not ready for the stress of hard training. Depending on your age and level of conditioning, allow fifteen to thirty minutes for an adequate warm-up. So many injuries could be avoided if everyone took this simple step. I would also like to note that every sport requires a certain amount of flexibility, and you should spend, depending on your sport, at least twenty minutes a day stretching. The best time to stretch is right after your workout when your muscles are totally warmed up.