CROSS TRAINING - Consistency is KEY!
As school has ended, it's important to consider all factors of your training. It's easy to think, "Oh, I have a lot more time to focus on getting stronger or faster in the pool BUT maybe I will start that tomorrow." Why put off what you're able to start today!
Without the structure of school in your day, may of the "background" pieces to your training get pushed to the side. You aren't eating as consistently and sleep patterns are off. Your mind isn't working so hard trying to keep up with school that you spend the whole summer in a fog from all the late nights and video games that you may be playing. Look below to see how we can fight that and make this summer's training the best it can be!
Nutrition
Maybe you've been wondering how to set yourself up for success with nutrition, but have been trying to balance school, homework, practice, extracurriculars, time with friends and family and just haven't had the time.
Maybe nutrition is something you've never really given much thought to because any food is fuel and it's been going just fine.
Maybe you've found yourself tired at the end of practice, but have just attributed that to your long days and busy lifestyle.
--- How you fuel is how you will perform ---
If you can relate to any of these things, and are looking for a way to elevate your training this summer to get you prepared for upcoming meets, HS swimming in the fall, or just overall better swimming, please don't hesitate to reach out. We need CONSISTENCY, and without the structure of school, nutrition turns into a twilight zone of whatever snacks are available throughout the day. This definitely may not be the best thing for an athlete's body!
Sleep
Being intentional about your sleep habits, even though you don't have school to get up for, is what will set you apart from your teammates and your competition. I know it's bright and sunny at all hours of the day right now, but having a bed time that is CONSISTENT will convince your body that it is time to sleep (regardless of how light it is).
--- How you rest is how you will recover ---
If you think that you'll be able to have a successful practice after staying up and sleeping 2-3 hours less than normal, you're kidding yourself. Not only will the practice be challenging, but without rest, your body won't be able to recover as well afterwards. If finding restful sleep is challenging to you, don't wait for it to "magically" get better. We can come up with strategies to improve your sleep.
Goal Setting
Just want to stop for a moment on this topic, because although this is not physical training, it is a vital aspect to your overall health as an athlete. Without goals, we are aimless!
--- How you aim yourself is how you will perform ---
This will be the topic to consider during June's posts, but I want to encourage you with CONSISTENT work towards your goals. If you don't have any, or don't know where to start, let me know! Goal setting is one of my favorite parts of working with athletes and there's no better time to start now.
I'll keep the action items short:
ATHLETES:
Pay attention to what you're doing outside of the water to help you be successful in the water.
If you're wanting to start with one thing, what / when / how much you're eating to see if it's really enough.
Hydration is included in nutrition, so make sure you're drinking enough water to counter act your physical activity + the warm summer weather!
PARENTS:
Encourage consistent schedules (even if school isn't providing the same manner of consistency)
Provide opportunity for snacks / hydration throughout day, even if your athlete is participating in multiple activities.
If you're not sure how to start, please ask! I am always available to answer questions or meet in person. Like I said, the next month’s topic is Goal Setting, but it is never too early to get a jump start on your goals. Looking forwards to this summer, and the changes that will be made to our program.
-- Coach Sam
