Written by. Julia Johnston, LPCC, LICDC
As a therapist who works with many student athletes, I often see them struggle to balance their summer commitments. On one hand, there’s pressure to maintain fitness and improve their skills during the off-season. On the other, summer is a time for relaxation, socializing, and recharging. How can student athletes strike the right balance?
Set realistic goals: Start by defining what you want to achieve athletically this summer, but be reasonable. You don’t need to train like its peak season. Focus on maintaining fitness and working on specific skills rather than pushing for major gains.
Create a flexible schedule: Map out a weekly routine that includes workouts, but leave plenty of room for spontaneity and fun. Maybe you do a morning workouts 3-4 days a week and leave your afternoons and weekends free.
Mix fun and fitness: Look for ways to stay active that don’t feel like work. Try pick up games with friends, new sports, or explore outdoor activities like hiking, swimming or biking. Try working out with friends for accountability and fun.
Prioritize rest and recovery: Remember that rest is crucial for athletic performance. Don’t feel guilty about taking days off or having a lazy afternoon by the pool. Your body and mind need downtime. Missing a workout isn’t the end all be all. Focus on consistency rather than perfection.
Stay connected socially: Make time for friends and family. Social connections are vital for mental health and can help prevent burnout.
Practice mindfulness: Stay present in the whatever you’re doing. When you’re working out, focus on your training. When you’re with friends, be fully engaged in the moment.
Listen to your body and mind: Pay attention to signs of overtraining or burnout. If you’re constantly tired, losing motivation, or not enjoying activities you usually love, it might be time to dial back the training.
Remember, the goal of summer isn’t just to maintain athletic performance, but to return to school and sport feeling refreshed and motivated. By finding balance between workouts and fun, you’ll set yourself up for success in the coming year.
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