Flexability and stretching out-
Do Not Over TrainAthletes are competitive, and many of them aim for perfection. They know that they can hit the ball harder, run faster, pedal with more vigor if they just push themselves a little more. While this mentality might get you to the finish line quicker on race day, it can also have a detrimental effect by increasing your risk for injury. Never forget that rest is an essential component of any training regimen, regardless of the sport. Schedule at least one day of rest weekly to allow your body to regenerate.
Introduce Variety
Many athletes focus their time and attention on one sport. If you are a cyclist, you get out your bike and prepare for that 25 mile ride. If you are a swimmer, you might be thinking about ways to improve your breast stroke. However, you must add variety to your training regimen to prevent injury. If you are always running, you are working the same body parts day in and day out. By changing up your regimen, you recruit muscle fibers that you may have neglected while giving your body a rest from your usual activity. As you increase your variety, you will become more versatile and a better athlete all around.
Stretch Away
Stretching prevents athletic injuries. Oftentimes, athletes are so eager to get to their sport, that they forgo a good stretch regimen prior to and after their activity. They cite time constraints as a primary reason for disregarding their stretches. These bad habits invite injury. Muscles must be stretched adequately to perform optimally. Learn the stretches that apply to your sport, or for the workout you will be doing, and make a commitment to perform them every time that you compete or train. Stretch easy at least a few minutes prior to exercise by doing a few back stretches and quad stretches, limbering and warming up, and do at least 10 minutes after any activity.
