Get inspired by our elite athletes
Watching elite athletes perform in their events can be awe-inspiring. Who hasn’t
vowed to be more active after watching a particularly great race or appreciating
the grace of a diving or gymnastics competition?
Propel yourself off the couch with these lessons from athletes and their quest
for excellence. Here are a few that you can use to help you achieve your own
personal best.
Follow your passion. Many athletes are driven by more than
competition. Their love of their sport is what motivates them to train early
mornings, evenings and weekends, through all kinds of weather and time demands.
Finding something you love to do will help you stick with your activity,
no matter what. Stoke your enthusiasm by learning all you can about the culture
of your sport and its history, rules and heroes.
Cross train. Athletes don’t get better at their sport
simply by doing the same thing over and over. They usually practice one or more
other sports or activities to complement their primary one. Cross training is
a great way for athletes at all levels to increase strength and skill, prevent
strain and injuries — and alleviate boredom.
Get the right equipment. At the elite level, the difference
between gold and silver can hinge on the material of one’s bathing suit,
the weight of a bike or the shape of a boat. While the demands are less for
a weekend athlete, it does make sense to wear clothing and footwear that fits
properly, is comfortable and helps prevent injuries. Make sure running shoes
offer support and are not worn out, and choose equipment such as racquets, bikes
or clubs that are right for your body and skill level.
Take it slow and be safe. An injury can end a competitive athletic
career. While the stakes aren’t as high for the rest of us, no one wants
to be set back by a strain or sprain. Warm up and stretch before exercising,
and cool down and stretch when you’re done. Don’t push yourself
too hard, too fast. And avoid exercising when you are in pain or tired —
that’s often when serious injuries can occur.
Perfect your technique. During interviews, athletes often talk
about perfecting their moves. Small adjustments to posture, stance and grip
can have a big impact. Why not take some lessons or a few sessions with a coach
in your own sport to learn about some changes you could make.
Be consistent. No one achieves world-class status by only training
on weekends, or by taking a break for several weeks because they’re busy.
It’s easier to reach your fitness goals if you can exercise regularly
and consistently throughout the week, without long gaps in between.