How do athletes become so skilled at what they do? Is it groundwork laid in childhood PE classes? Can you build foundations of athletic development when you are already in your thirties? At Training House, we believe it is never too late to establish the foundations of athletic development in your own life to start your fitness journey. What are the foundations of athletic development?
First things first; Movement
Before incorporating any form of resistance to your exercise regime, understanding and executing proper movement is paramount. Not only does it reduce the risk of injury while training (and competing) it also increases performance. The best athlete’s are usually the quickest learners. Their ability to master a specific movement techniques and execute them consistently, sets elite athletes apart from the rest. The neuromuscular challenges that come with learning new patterns builds the mind-body connection. Getting your body to do what your mind is telling it to can tough at times. Don’t rush this process. Allow yourself to move efficiently before putting your body under resistance. Once you’ve grasped the concepts of a specific pattern it’s time to begin progressively loading that exercise.
Strength Training Is Key
When considering all of the different aspects of athletic development and sports that can be played as a teen or adult, it’s clear that strength training is at the heart of it. Strength training reduces the risk of injury by strengthening bones, muscles and connective tissue. By improving flexibility, it also reduces the risk of injury. The ability to land safely, decelerate and absorb / transfer force properly thanks to physical fitness, reduces likelihood of experiencing sprains, injuries and tears.
Strength training can also improve skill development in individual or team athletic pursuits. Many teen or adult athletes struggle to control their bodies with precision while moving it with speed. While some think this is a training problem (and it can be), in many cases this happens because the athlete doesn’t understand how to utilize their core. By improving dynamic core strength, overall athletic performance can be improved.
Don’t “Over-Train”
When developing athletes who are teenagers or adults, the correlation between fatigue and fitness / development is oftentimes overemphasized. However, progress is a much better marker than being worn out! There is much more to be gained from consistent progress that builds over time instead of focusing on wearing yourself out during each training session. Why is this so tricky for many of us? It takes discipline and experience. It’s important to remember athletic development is a process, one that takes time and consistency. Listening to your body and progressing as you go helps to build confidence while establishing a routine. Working with a trainer or a group setting can ensure you are laying a strong foundation and staying disciplined.
We’re More Than Just a Gym
At Training House, we are proud to be more than just a gym. We believe that anyone can train like an athlete, and welcome you to start or continue your fitness journey with our skilled team. From group classes to gym memberships, we have the right solutions for your needs. To learn more, visit us online or call us at (443) 991-5971.