Every year, just after the offseason begins, something I like to call the ‘Offseason Dread’ sets in. What is this, exactly? It’s the “I’m so excited for summer, but the first practice back is going to be the worst!”
No.
I used to struggle with this too, until I realized that the offseason and the first practice back are more a state of mind than a state of body. Think about it – this dreaded, horrible first practice back doesn’t register for most eight year olds like it does for eighteen year olds. Why? Because kids stay active all year long – they have so much energy! In fact, some kids are even more active during the offseason, particularly if it falls over the summer, because they can play outside most of the day!
So how can we stay fit during the offseason while also giving our bodies some much needed rest?
Take a hike (to the beach)!
We all know that one of the best parts of summer is going to the beach. Depending on where you live, there may be some great little beaches (sand or rock) that you can hike out to, maybe even canoe or kayak to . Do it! Go on an adventure and “earn” that beach time. You can soak in the sun, play a little volleyball or toss a Frisbee around just as easily at a remote beach as an easily accessible beach – plus it makes a way better story! Hiking, canoeing and kayaking are generally great activities to engage in though, so put them on your to-do list (or new things to try list) for this offseason.
Join a rec league.
There are rec leagues in most cities/towns year round. If you are a student, there are typically intramurals to join. This is a great way to try new sports, play the sports you can’t during your competitive season, or just get active with friends outside of your competitive team.
Volunteer.
I love a good hike, but volunteering is one of my favourite activities, both to do and recommend. There are so many interesting projects that need volunteers in every community that there is undoubtedly something for everyone. From building houses with Habitat for Humanity to delivering kids camps, you’ll always keep your body working. What’s more, depending on the activity you may use muscles in new ways and combinations. Volunteering has the added perk of being good not only for your athletic heart (cardio) but for your compassionate heart. Staying fit and giving back to my community? Sign me up!
Keep fit with cheerFIT!
The cheerFIT bootcamps and monthly challenges are a great way to stay fit without over exerting yourself. They are even better with friends! Arrange with your team mates to meet weekly or biweekly to condition together. Inviting friends to participate is also a really great way of allowing them insight into what you work so hard for all season.
What are your favorite ways to keep fit during the offseason?
Stay FIT,
Your Ambassador Brieanne
Brieanne
Brieanne is a graduate student and community developer from the Great White North (i.e. Canada). Our first Canuck Ambassador, Brieanne is best known for her happy, supportive and high-energy personality, and her ardent belief in the power of ‘(positive) energy hugs’. A fitness enthusiast, she also dances (everywhere, anytime), runs, practices yoga, and spends as much time outdoors as possible. If she’s not sweating it up with CheerFIT, you can find her addressing social inequities and structural violence with(in) various communities or baking away for parties and pleasure alike while blasting Taylor Swift.