Why is training important for athletes?

Training is the way an “athlete” prepares physically and mentally for the rigors of their sport. Now, I am going to take some liberties with this and say, we are all athletes. Life is our sport, and we should all be training. Yes, that means we should all be exercising.

Just like an elite athlete’s training should be specific to their sport, an everyday athlete’s training should be specific to their life. Goals are important here, as we need to understand where we want our training to take us. If your goal is to just be able to make it through the next day of your sedentary job or class, you don’t need to push yourself as hard as if your goal is to be able to win the day against your competition. (Your peers, co-workers, or just your daily tasks) Yes, I think we need to change our mindset and increase our goals to try to win each day, not just make it through. And, since our mind and body function better with exercise, we have a better shot at winning the day if we incorporate some “training” along the way.

Training is always meant to take you to the next level, so if you are not currently incorporating training, start easy. Go for a brisk walk and then do some stretches to help your posture. (This helps loosen muscles that get tight during your day of sitting at your computer or school desk.) If you are already doing more than this, go to the next step, incorporate some gentle strength training (bands, dumbbells, or body weight exercises) in with your cardio and stretching. If your job is more physically demanding, you need to do more. You need exercises to offset the stress and strain of your job. If your job entails a lot of lifting and walking, yoga might better help to strengthen and balance your muscles without overworking them.

Wherever you are at, look to raise your goals and win the day. Push yourself to do something to start or progress your “training.” If this seems overwhelming or dangerous to you, contact us to schedule a consultation, and let us help you take these steps. Remember to check with your healthcare provider before starting any exercise program.

-Jason Allred, DP