Prepare Away From Your Sport

Hi Readers

Six weeks ago an athlete I have been working with for a couple of years came up with a plan to incorporate cross training into his weekly training. He wants become a better hockey player.

When an athlete is preparing for a sport that is not starting for 5 months my best advice is to incorporate exercises into the workout that emphasizes using supporting muscles and not just the prime movers for the sport.

A swimmer may train away from the pool or a soccer player may workout in the pool.

We set up a pool  program and a weight program in the gym to have a change from his normal routine and to keep training towards his goal of becoming  a better hockey player.

He began doing Cardio in the water both above and below the surface of the water. His flexibility improved dramatically and so did the pain he was having in his back.

Next we initiated a 10 week gym program that gradually had him lifting heavy but not until after 5 weeks of high reps.
Pilates was introduced to help balance out overused muscles.

He joined a soccer team and had fun while at the same time loosing 3 pounds of fat with all the running.

So now after 6 weeks he has made huge strides fitness wise without being on the ice every day. His body is 4 weeks away from being tuned up and set for the riggers of tryouts and games.

Cross training is my weekly tip for preparing for your seasonal sport.

Mark O’Neill and Shelley Donald are both registered Personal Trainers

Email:     [email protected]

Web:   www.oneillconditioning.com