As the holiday season approaches and temperatures are finally dropping, athletes who play fall sports suddenly have plenty of extra time on their hands. This seasonal ritual leads athletes into the off-season, which is a crucial time for them to rest, recover, and recharge so they can bring their A-game to the next season.
“Whenever I’m not playing soccer, I like to run,” said Lana Lavinder, center attacking midfielder. “But I also really like to scrapbook—I’ve kept one since middle school. The only time I’m at home is when I’m watching movies and reading.”
In addition to rest, athletes should also focus on fueling and training their body and mind during the off-season.
“I practice having a good diet, as well as working out. Sometimes I go on runs,” said Grayson Cooper, track thrower and football lineman.
Whether running, reading, eating healthy, or scrapbooking, adding productive hobbies to the routine benefits the body. During this off-season, finding something to enjoy–instead of doom-scrolling or bed-rotting–will lead to a more satisfying break.
“Set goals for what you want to do in the season: where do you see yourself and your team,” said football and weightlifting coach Michael Mays. “Becoming faster, stronger, and more explosive or agile should be your main focus.”
Athletes can stay motivated through their break by setting goals for themselves. Goals can help people adapt to new skills or deepen others before their return. Athletes should rest up, but also remember that staying motivated is important in the journey to success.