As a sports physical therapist with 19 years of experience, a former basketball player, a Strength Coach, and a Concussion Specialist, I’ve witnessed firsthand the unique challenges high school athletes face. As a mother of a college swimmer, I understand the pressure these young athletes endure to perform at their best. One critical element that can significantly impact their performance and longevity in sports is strength training.
Injuries are a common occurrence in the world of athletics. They can happen during games, practices, or even just during regular physical activity. But why do these injuries occur?
Here are a few key reasons:
Bad Accidents: Just like car crashes, some injuries happen due to unavoidable collisions. Athletes can collide with each other or lose control of their bodies, resulting in injuries that are often out of their control.
Undertraining: Many athletes face this issue, especially when returning from a break. Jumping back into high-intensity training too quickly can lead to injuries in unprepared bodies.
Overtraining: This is equally concerning. Repetitive activities can overwhelm the body, especially during high-stress periods like playoffs when game intensity ramps up.
Despite the inherent risks, one crucial strategy can help reduce injuries: strength training.
Benefits of Strength Training
Injury Prevention: A strong body is more resilient. For instance, a well-conditioned soccer player is less likely to suffer an ACL tear from a forceful impact if they have proper muscle control.
Performance Enhancement: Strength training improves power and explosiveness, which are essential for success in any sport. It also builds muscular endurance, enabling athletes to sustain performance throughout the season.
Faster Recovery: Regular strength training enhances overall conditioning, allowing for quicker recovery from intense training and games.
Skill Development: Improved strength translates into better technique and control, enhancing coordination and movement efficiency.
Mental Toughness: Achieving strength goals boosts confidence and fosters discipline, essential traits for any athlete.
Adaptation to Physical Demands: Strength training can be tailored to meet the specific needs of different sports, whether it’s speed, endurance, or power.
Training Recommendations
I recommend that every athlete engage in strength training 2-3 times a week during the off-season and 1-2 times a week in-season. Maintaining strength throughout the year is vital for long-term athletic health.
Overcoming Obstacles
Many athletes face barriers to strength training, such as lack of knowledge and access to proper programs. Starting strength training at a young age is essential, especially as kids begin to specialize in sports earlier.
Don’t wait for summer break to start strength training—begin now! If you're unsure where to start, look for local programs. Here at Physical Therapy San Pedro, we offer a tailored program designed for our community, training 3x a week year-round.
Get Started Today!
Strength training is not just an option; it’s a necessity for every athlete. If you’re in San Pedro and ready to take your performance to the next level, check out our website, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram @physicaltherapysanpedro for more information.
Get strong, San Pedro athletes. You’ll thank me later!
Much ❤️,
Dr. Ja’nae Brown Owner, Physical Therapy San Pedro, Sports Physical Therapist, Concussion Specialist, Certified Functional Strength Coach
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