New Year's Resolutions for the Athlete

Well, 2015 is now upon us, and while this is my first lost of the New Year, I'm sure everyone has settled in to this year quite nicely.  There is quite a bit to write about, with all the fitness and nutrition resolutions out there.  It seems every year people are always trying to eat healthier, make it to the gym more, go on a diet, etc.  Let me start off by saying "good job".  Knowing you need need to eat better or exercise more gets you one step closer.  Actually doing it, well, that's another story.  And while many blogs and posts in this New Year are out there to help you live a healthier life, what about the athletes? What does the New Year bring for athletes looking at 2015 to be there greatest year, yet?  What resolutions should they have made?  Let's take a look at a couple resolutions they should have made.

One resolution they should have made is to be a better teammate.  For all the team sports out there, the best teams are only as strong as their weakest link.  I'm sure you've heard that before, just like there is no "I" in team.  How can you be a better teammate?  Try putting the team first.  You need to set aside your personal goals for goals of the team.  And try to be more positive.  Teammates will notice and play better if they are encouraged and aren't criticized by teammates for every mistake that they make. What about listening?  If you can listen to your coach and teammates you will be much better off.  Many times they tell you things that will improve your game as well as the team around you.

Another resolution is to train when need to train and rest when you need to rest.  You need to train smart.  Work on the things that need working on, not just the thing you're good at.  You might not be the fastest player, so work on your speed.  And if you don't have the most strength, then develop your strength.  But resting is just as important as training.  Some athletes don't work out enough.....but some athletes work out too much!! You need to look at your schedule and make sure you fit in rest between, games, practices, school, homework, training, etc.

Those are just two of the resolutions that athletes should have made.  They are not the only resolutions that athletes can make, but are two very important ones.  If you are being a better teammate, training when you need to train and resting when you need to rest, then you are setting yourself up for success in whatever sport you may be in.