We all know that being physically fit is a good thing. Certainly for athletes but for all of us. When we look at the best athletes, with the most athletic bodies we have to keep a bunch of things in mind. Understanding these fundamental ideas will go a long way in helping our players be more fit and athletic.
1. There are no shortcuts. There are no quick fixes.
The most fit athletes have been working on it for a long time. Start with setting simple goals to increase your amount of exercise and eat well and you are on your way but don’t get frustrated when it takes a little time.
2. You know where you are and where you want to go!
Every journey starts with one step. Take the first step but be sure you have a destination in mind. You need short-term, long-term and lifelong goals.
3. It’s a lot more than cutting calories!
Controlling your intake is part of the equation but only a part. Healthy choices, exercise, hydration and rest all parts of the process.
4. Don’t obsess over your abs!
Not everyone is going to get a six-pack or 12-pack. It’s OK. Don’t obsess over your abs but rather allow them to develop throughout your training. A lot of exercises help you achieve improvement in the midsection.
5. Body fat is a necessary evil in building muscle.
You have to fuel the machine for it to get stronger. Fat is fairly easy to lose but muscle is difficult to build. There is a balancing act, but you can’t get stronger if you are in a calorie deficit.
6. Vary your workouts to achieve maximum gains.
The best athletes know that there has to be a balance between the amount you train, the type of training you do and the amount of rest you require. There is a science to getting more fit. Cross training, weights, running, agilities, swimming and many other things can all be part of a great program. Do a little research and come up with a plan that works!
7. You will miss a workout, occasionally. No big deal!
Life happens. There will be a time that for a myriad of reasons you might miss a workout. So what, next workout! Beating yourself up because you missed one isn’t going to make up for it or make the next one better. Relax!
8. Big Fish Little Pond? Heck no!
Find people to work out with who are bigger, faster or stronger more experienced than you. You limit yourself when you are the biggest fish in the pond. The little fish has to swim faster or they get swallowed up. Challenge yourself by surrounding yourself with bigger fish!
9. Know you don’t know it all!
Always be own the lookout for new ideas and a better way to train. Learn all you can! Ask questions, do your research, be inquisitive and keep looking for new ideas. Knowledge is definitely more powerful when it comes to your training.
10. Do what you need to do to get better!
Common sense that isn’t common practice. When you set your goals to get stronger and become more athletic it requires you to make choices to achieve those goals. Water instead of soda, simple right? Hopefully! The choices you make will go along way to achieving your goals. The mental part of being fit is a huge part of accomplishing your goals!
About the Author: Tory Acheson brings a wealth of knowledge to the Fastpitch Prep staff. He has coached at all levels of the game, including the last 25 years at the college level at the University of Wisconsin – Parkside, Tennessee Tech and Kennesaw State. He began his coaching career at the high school level spending 9 years Whitnall High School in Greenfield, Wis. and is now working as a professional softball instructor.
