For most of us the time comes at 18, some a few years after that, and the greats maybe get a decade or so at most after their last play of senior year. But no matter how much talent you may have the day will come when someone tells you that your sports journey as a player has come to an end.
Undoubtedly, this will be a painful day for most. However, it could be the first of many painful days if you do not take the steps to take care of your body during your playing career, not matter how long that may be.
Below are three things that you can do now that will help moving long past the first day of your competitive sports retirement.
Roll Out Your Muscles After Practice
$30 investment into a foam roller can help prevent injury and increase longevity for years to come. The legs and back can benefit from the blood flow and muscles relaxations both before and after your workout. This will help to keep the body flexible and prevent injury that can create chronic pain
Using a foam roller has also been proven to help with mobility as it has been shown to increase joint range of motion. To gain the full benefits of using a foam roller it is important use it routinely, be make sure to use it before and after your workout.
Find A Low Impact Training Alternative
Lifting weights and running are very important to many athletes and they play a pivotal role in being prepared to perform on game-day.
However, the body needs its days off. Finding a low impact form of exercise is a smart way to get your workout it while giving the body a bit of a break. Two examples that will get your heart rate up while saving your joints are swimming and cycling.
Remember To Give Yourself Days Off
As important as it is to make your workouts count and work hard at preparing for your sport, it is also important to have time to let your body and mind relax.
Whether it means sitting and watching your sport being performed at the professional level or reading your favorite Harry Potter novel, let your body rest. There are thousands of things you can do to become a better athlete and person every day, find one that is nice to your muscles and make it a focus for your off day.
