Friday, September 30, 2011

Plyometric Training Programs - Upper Body And Lower Body Exercises

Plyometric training aims at helping an athlete gain power which entails speed and strength. It involves certain exercises that enable the muscle to gain maximum force. Plyometric workouts are quick eccentric contractions that help a muscle attain the maximum energy within a short time. Therefore, this form of sports training involves muscle lengthening (eccentric contraction) and muscle shortening (concentric contraction). The more you train the more you could increase your force and become a better sports person.

Another imperative detail that you want to note is that the energy needed to stretch a muscle is dissipated in the form of heat. Even so, some of the energy could be kept within the flexible elements of the muscles. This salvaged energy again becomes accessible when a muscle contracts. In order to avoid loss of energy an eccentric contraction must always be followed by a concentric contraction. This is a process that takes place within a very short time span and it explains what plyometric training is all about.

If you are set to begin your training, the first thing you should do is find out how you could customize the exercise program according to your favorite sport. Each game requires a given level of muscle power. For instance, if you play basketball, you may be more interested in doing plyometrics that can help you increase a vertical jump, speed and flexibility. Probably you can use a trainer who knows his or her job. If you want to do these exercises at home then you can use the free information resources available on the internet.

Primarily, you would concentrate on exercises that can stretch and activate the muscles on your lower body and upper body. For your upper body, you could try press ups teamed up with a hand clap. They are used to condition the arms and chest. The eccentric phase occurs when your hands are back on the floor while the chest sinks and this is followed by fiery upward moves. Another wonderful workout that you can try is the passing of medicine ball. In order to succeed in this you can invite a friend, a sibling or use a sports trainer.

There are many ways to pass a medicine ball to strengthen your arms, chests, hips and so on. Drop jumping is one of the many techniques that you can do to enhance your lower body. Mostly you will need to identify an elevated surface such as a tall box. It should be just tall enough to allow you to jump right on top of it and drop your body down to the floor. You will of course drop and land on your feet flat on the ground.

The drop down in this case is considered to be the eccentric phase and energetic hop upwards to be the concentric contraction phase of plyometric training. Bounding is another exercise that boosts the lower body. You will try to use oversize strides when running or hopping. For instance you can try doing bounding up a staircase. This will help you if you are training for jumping or running competitions. Jumping hurdles can be used to enhance the results of bounding.

For more information, please read this article on Plyometric exercises, and on Plyometric training


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Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Coaching Mental Toughness - Is There Power in Positive Thinking?

Yesterday I interviewed Shannon Miller, the "winningest" female hockey coach in history.

I asked her how she builds confidence in her athletes. What is her coaching mental toughness training secret?

She said: "I get to know each player and her strengths. I focus on her strengths by being really positive with her. Then I set realistic goals for her and encourage her the whole time. One by one she achieves her goals, giving her confidence tons of momentum."

Simple, right?

1. Get to know yourself.

2. Focus on your strengths.

3. Set realistic goals based on them.

4. Build on your momentum.

Yes, simple.

So why do so many people struggle with their confidence?

What step do they fall down on?

This will surprise you.

It's Step 2 - the ability to focus on your strengths.

Most people cannot focus on their strengths for any reasonable length of time.

They are inherently negative.

They've been trained since the age of five to think, talk, and be negative.

By the time they reach adulthood, it is a deeply ingrained habit.

Shannon actually had the opposite experience.

Her mother was a super-positive person. Shannon says: "I used to sing and play the guitar as a kid. For a long time I thought I was really good because of my Mom. Later, when I got old enough to self-evaluate, I realized I can't sing at all," she laughed.

Positive thinking doesn't mean putting on your rose-colored glasses and ignoring reality.

It means focusing on where you're REALLY good repetitively.

After interviewing Shannon I started thinking about every superstar athlete I've ever met.

They all have ONE characteristic in common.

They really DO think they are the cat's meow.

Even when they make mistakes or lose, they minimize such trivial things in their mind.

Want to test my theory?

Watch a big competition like the U.S. Master's Golf tournament or the Stanley Cup.

Listen to the interviews of the losing athletes.

They RARELY insult themselves after a loss.

In fact they're almost always talking about how well they played, even if they choked or unraveled.

Focusing on your strengths is a really important skill in sport mental toughness training.

You need to cultivate this habit, pronto.

Here's a quick and easy way to start.

Right now, without thinking, say out loud your top three strengths as an athlete or coach.

How did you do? Were they easy to come up with?

If not, you need to do some work on this.

And if you'd like to massively shortcut the process to coaching mental toughness, I suggest my Ebook, The Courage to Win in Sport. You will learn exactly how to re-program yourself with the sports mental game secrets jealously guarded by superstar athletes. You can even download it FREE with our seven day trial. Go here: Mental Toughness
Your friend,
Lisa B.


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Sunday, September 25, 2011

Discover the Fun of Paddle Boards

Stand up paddle boarding (SUP) is FUN! The use of stand up paddle boards has had a huge increase in popularity recently. While it is a different surfing style some surfers say it might be easier than traditional surfing. These boards were first used for learning to surf, but as time passed it developed into its own sport. It gives you an opportunity to enjoy the unique view of the water and it can be used in more than just ocean waters - you can use a paddle board in rivers, bays and lakes to have tons of fun while getting a great workout.

Beginners and novices that want to purchase a paddle board should test one out first by renting from a local surf shop that carries them for rent. Since your first board could be a big purchase it is better to try it out if possible. Internet research can go a long way to helping better understand and finding information on the subject at first. While many surf shops carry these boards most have a limited number of models and design to choose from, so it may take a some time to find the right board for your skill level. An alternative to visiting numerous surf shops is to use the internet for finding the right one.

Looking for equipment online will save you tons of time and effort finding the right board that fits your needs. The internet provides many sites offering a large array of designs, styles, and shapes of equipment. Doing some research will help you find the right board at the right price in a short amount of time compared to traditional shopping. Many online retailers of paddle boards provide pictures and descriptions of each they offer with boards being shipped to your destination of choice. These benefits can help you decide which board is right for you much easier. Once you find what you are looking for in a paddle board it is easy to compare prices and equipment from many different sites so you get the best deal for your money. You can also then compare what is comparable at your local surf shop if you want to get your hands on a board before actually buying.

Although some say it is easier than typical surfing, it can be tricky as well. The increasing popularity of paddle boards and sups cannot be denied - just go to your local surf spot and see how many there are now-a-days. This methods of surfing gives you the opportunity to enjoy nature while being in the water and having fun. So go rent or buy a paddle board and get out and enjoy the exciting new craze taking hold of beaches everywhere. It's an exciting sport offering a great work-out while getting in touch with nature. You'll be amazed at the fun you'll be having.

For more information about paddle boarding, to learn how to get started, and for guidelines on buying equipment visit http://www.paddle-boards.org/. See you in the water on a paddle board!


http://EzineArticles.com/6504140

Thursday, September 22, 2011

The Benefits of Stainless Steel Play Equipment

Often there are many different options to consider when designing for a new play area. There are choices to make between different materials, there are age groups that you have to reach out to, budgets to adhere to and there are longterm goals to try to achieve. Here, we talk about the benefits of choosing stainless steel play equipment and why it can benefit you for years to come...

When you first see stainless steel play equipment installed on site, at exhibitions or in a catalogue it provides a feeling of the very best quality and design. Your next thoughts may be "we wish" or "too expensive for our budget" however, this is not the case if viewed on a longer term basis.

Stainless steel play equipment provides real value for money. From a maintenance point of view structurally, there should be no problems with the material for over 20 years, often out living many other materials used for play equipment within the area. The very best of fittings, including bolts and screws are used alongside high quality bearings and such like, so corrosion and rotting of the stainless materials is something for you never to worry about.

Using expensive materials like this play equipment is beneficial due to the fact that it provides long life and high material strength, this durable material offers many excellent features and is used in high quality public urban designs, both in play equipment and ranges of seating, benches and lighting.

Engineers, specifiers and designers often make the mistake of underestimating or overlooking the unique values provided by stainless steel because of what is viewed as the higher initial cost of the material. However, over the total life of a project, stainless is often the best value option. Stainless steel needs much less maintenance and its hygienic qualities means that harsh cleaners are not required to maintain a clean surface - as we are all aware that graffiti can be a problem in play areas.

Another benefit of using this type of material play equipment is that from an environmental point of view, there is less concern about disposal since the material is 100% recyclable. In fact, over 50% of new comes from old re-melted scrap, thereby completing the full life cycle. So the next time you think about designing a play area, we hope you consider stainless steel play equipment as a real option.

If you would like further information on this, or you have any play area related questions please visit our website at http://www.playground-supplies.com/


http://EzineArticles.com/6497587

Monday, September 19, 2011

Quarterback Drills for Youth Football

Quarterback drills for the youth player are unique and should not be confused with the dills used for the older players.

Many players begin their football careers at a young age and anyone planning on playing the QB position will need to perform the appropriate type of drills.

Far too many dads have no clue on how to drill the quarterback at any age, but especially the pop warner football level.

Kids can now start playing football as early as 4 years old. This is always flag football, but even at this young age it is important to make sure the kids are getting the proper instruction.

The first thing a player needs to learn is the proper way to stand behind center. Depending on the kind of snap makes a difference in the stance the player will be using.

If the quarterback is lining up in the traditional stance, under a center, then he needs to make sure his feet are no wider than shoulder width apart. I see way too many kids lining up under center with their feet spread way outside their shoulders.

If a player stands with their feet that far apart, they will have a hard time getting the proper depth fast enough, especially on one step drops.

Make sure the player stands up with their back straight, knees bent and hands placed together, but opened as wide as the player can. The QB then places his hands directly under the bent over center.

The coaches needs to watch and make sure the quarterback keeps his hands together and stays under the center until he has secured the football.

Here again, I see most players pulling their hands apart, or even worse, yanking their hands out from under the center before they have secured the ball.

Next, the quarterback needs to keep his head straight up, looking forward at the defense. He should not lean or turn his head, tipping off the direction of the play.

Most young players tip off the opposition the direction of the play by accidentally leaning in one way or moving their helmets in the direction the play is going.

As the QB takes the snap from the center, he must first protect the ball into his stomach area. It does not matter is the play is a pass or run, the ball needs to be secured after the snap is received.

In conclusion, make sure even at a young age that you are teaching the players the correct drills and right techniques.

Please check out our web site which contains many quarterback drills you can use tonight!


http://EzineArticles.com/6499167

Saturday, September 17, 2011

The Ideal Racing Pigeon Loft

The Racing Pigeon Loft

Your racing pigeon loft is an important piece of becoming a successful fancier. A good loft is a must because if your pigeons aren't well rested, comfortable, or healthy they will not do a very good job of winning races. And yes, a proper racing pigeon loft will provide all of those things. So let's get right into it and learn what makes up a fantastic pigeon loft that will provide us with those needs.

If you are a beginner or don't have a lot of money for your loft, you can build one yourself. Average sizes for a loft are 6-8 ft wide, 10-12 ft long and 6-8 ft high. You want to make sure you can fully stand in your loft so make the height according. When trying to determine the size of your pigeon loft, make sure you give enough space, that will allow the pigeons to move around but not too much as that will make them harder to tame, and train. A good rule of thumb is having 8 or 10 cubic feet of air space.

You can also purchase racing pigeon lofts from vendors, they will have some in stock, or you may have a customized one made for you. This of course will cost a fair bit of money depending on the size, and what materials you are wanting to use.

Airflow and sunlight are two very important factors to consider while having your racing pigeon loft built, or when you are building it. Sunlight helps your pigeon's immune system and gives them energy, so try and have the openings facing an area that receives a fair bit of sun. Proper airflow allows the pigeons to get fresh air to keep them healthy. It also prevents moisture from being in the loft which bacteria would love! While it is important to have airflow through the inside of the loft, it is also important to have it under the loft. Which is why it is good to have the floor off the ground by 1-2 feet. Having at least one vent in the roof is a good idea as well since it will allow heat to escape and keep it nice inside of the loft.

The roof of your racing pigeon loft should have some sort of a slope. Avoid flat roofs has they don't do the job as well. The most common kinds of roofs are sloped roofs, which are flat but have a slope so water can run off the roof easily. Make sure you slope it to the back or non-working area of your loft! Peaked roofs are good as well, having a simple gutter system to control the rainfall is a good idea with this type of roof.

Using all of these methods in the construction of your racing pigeon loft will allow your pigeons to grow fully, be healthy, and stay happy and comfortable. This is a must for any fancier that wants to have winning racing pigeons!

If you enjoyed this and what to discover more secrets to help you become a successful racing pigeon fancier visit http://www.racerpigeonsinfo.com/. Learn to building amazing racing pigeon lofts


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Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Is The Love Of Your Life Safe In Sports Activities?

If you partner is a sports buff then he may fall into two categories. One category is where he just loves to sit on the sidelines and enjoy watching the game, and is what you may call a verbal sports player. The other category is where he is actually involved in a sport and is a member of a sports team.

If he is actively involved in sports and has been for a period of time then there are most likely far less physically related sports dangers that he is facing. If on the other hand he has just joined a new sport then you may want to make some observations.

Lets say for example, your partner has decided he wants to begin to enjoy the great out doors. He is always stuck indoors as an office manager, and wants to get away from the hub of city life on the weekends. He has decided he is going to become a ski buff. This is great as any exercise is good for anyone. This is only true though if it is approached properly, and with the right precautions kept in mind. Of course he will need to know the safety rules of skiing, but he also needs to know his present physical condition.

Skiing is not just a matter of strapping a pair of skis on your boots and gliding down a hill. It places significant demands on various areas of the body such as the arms, shoulders, legs and ankles as well as the torso. For an office worker who does not make use of the muscles in these areas that first ski trip can come at a hefty price to the body. With your partner's enthusiasm at enjoying his new sport he may forget to keep in mind what his body is used to and over do it. Here is where you can take the lead and remind him of his current physical stamina. You will need to observe the amount of time he is actively involved and just what parts of his body he is using the most. By doing this you can possibly help prevent a great deal of discomfort that is sure to come.

Skiing is just one example. Every sport has some type of physical demand attached to it with some of these being easier to recognize than others. For example, its not hard to tell how physically demanding football is, but it is easy to over look at how physically strenuous golf can be. You as the loving person that you are may want to do a little research into what the physical demands will be in respect to your partner's new chosen sport then be on guard for the potential physical dangers it may present.

For some great ski advice and tons of information be sure to visit http://www.tunsnow.net/. Then if you want some great advice on how to keep your sports loving partner happy then you will enjoy what http://www.blueroyce.com/ has waiting for you.


http://EzineArticles.com/6511347

Sunday, September 11, 2011

What Dangers Lay In Wait For The New Water Sports Player?

With the economy being tough and money for entertainment becoming scarce more individuals are showing some attention to amateur sports activity. It is becoming more common now to see families enjoying sports such as kayaking as a family unit, instead of each family member heading off into different sporting venues. In fact it's not unusual to see entire families go off for a weekend of fishing using this as a form of sports involvement.

What has to be considered though, is that every sport no matter what it is holds a certain degree of danger and this has to be thought of before becoming actively involved in the chosen activity no matter what the age of the individual.

We mentioned two types of water sports here. It's easy to understand that there would be a greater level of possible danger with kayaking, but where in the world is there concern for danger in fishing. There are two types of dangers that have to be considered. First of course there is the danger of not following the safety rules of any sport. For example, kayaking has safety rules in place such as using the proper techniques for the sport, the right equipment and only making use of safe waters. For fishing common sense safety rules are those such as not fishing without a lifejacket, or keeping control of the boat. These are just a few examples. The other danger that we are focusing on here is the personal danger of people becoming involved in these types of sports without being physically fit.

For those beginning to show an interest in kayaking they envision sitting in a kayak and letting the rush of the rapids carry them along at a great rate of speed. Sure they have a paddle that they may need to just merely help them keep control of their direction. What they may not realize that there is a great deal of physical effort required to use that paddle against the heavy weight of the water. For those that have not been subjected to this type of strenuous activity it is placing a significant demand on the heart. To a less serious nature it is making use of muscles that are not used to this and muscular and soft tissue injuries are not uncommon in this case.

Fishing is probably one of the least strenuous sports to become involved in and may be the ideal choice for those who have some physical limitations. Again though the circumstances of the fishing event will dictate the degree of energy and physical stamina that is involved. Fishing for trout is far less likely to place as large a demand on the body as what fishing for Marlin would. Even youngsters though that are not used to casting out a fishing rod will often complain of a sore arm and shoulder their first few times out.

Other water sports such as swimming or water skiing hold their own physical risks. It is important to just keep in mind that no matter what type of water sport or water activity that you are going to begin to enjoy, that you consider your physical stamina first. Ease into the water sport and increase the duration as you become accustomed to it. For the more physically demanding type water sports it would be a good idea to get clearance to participate in these from your health care professional first.

For some more great kayaking tips be sure to visit http://www.rapidsports.net/. Then for fishing resources and great info. For fishing for the entire family you will want to spend some time at http://www.netoof.com/


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Friday, September 9, 2011

A Look at Low Impact Sports Activities

One problem I find with many sporting activities I have taken part in, is the heavy impact effecting my knee, ankle and hip joints due to running and falling over. As quite a large man, I have trained as a power lifter for many years, I noticed inflamed and aching joints after playing many sports I had enjoyed as a youngster. There are a lot of other people I know who want to be able to exercise, yet not punish their joints and end up with injuries. The question is, are there sports or activities where you can get a very good level of exercise without aching or injured joints? This article will list some activities that are decidedly low impact, yet very good for the cardio vascular system.

1. Swimming has been a real revelation for me. I now swim three times a week and my fitness and health have improved dramatically. There is hardly any impact on joints, and the work out is as tiring and hard as you choose to make it. Swimming between twenty and thirty lengths in a session, three times a week, will certainly keep you fit and healthy. The bonus is you can still walk without aching ankle or knee joints. A good stretching warm up before a swim makes sure there are no muscle pulls or spasms. As your strength grows you can easily add extra lengths to your workout, or even change to more physically demanding strokes like butterfly or front crawl.

2. Golf has been described as a good walk spoiled, but I disagree. I have never slept as well as I have after eighteen holes, participating in any other sport. There is good reason for this. Walking around a golf course is excellent exercise. For those who choose not to use battery powered golf carts, and transport their own clubs around, you will have a really good workout, without any jarring movements or heavy impact on your joints. As with swimming you can avoid any silly pulls by stretching well before beginning your game. Swinging a golf club to drive a ball is also a great way to keep fit as many upper body muscles are used to make a good disciplined swing. I play about twice a month and am able to walk around a course now, without feeling like I have endured a marathon, so I am certainly getting fitter doing it in combination with my other activities.

3. Sailing was a real surprise when I went for the first time. It is very physical, steering, and also manning the sail, together with changing positions with others in the boat to maintain course and stability. However you are not pounding your joints, so this is a very hard and physical low impact sport. I try to go sailing now once a month, and my upper body strength is still of a level similar to when I was lifting heavy in the gym. You will get an excellent back work out, as well as a great cardio vascular one.

There are plenty of ways to keep fit and also avoid high impact sports. My joints have never felt so good, and I spend a lot less time injured than I did playing football or rugby. I hope more people give these and other low impact sports a try instead of giving up on sports because of bad joints.

If you wish to discuss this article, or want to know more about sporting trophies and awards, you can contact the author here.
Sports Trophies. You must attach this bio if you are using this article please.


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Tuesday, September 6, 2011

Learn How To Jump Higher For Sports And Personal Benefits

Learning how to jump higher can be important for any sporty person. Even if you are not interested in certain sports that require good vertical jump skills you can enjoy jump exercises. They can help your body muscles develop adequate power which is made up of strength and speed. If you are an athlete or a ball player you need to keep your muscles strong and healthy. What is more, you require strong joints and tendons that can withstand constant pressure created by vigorous activity.

In your training, you must learn new techniques on how to increase your strength and agility. In this article, we will concentrate on the exercises that you could do to enhance your speed. These are power exercises that involve explosive swift moves within the shortest time possible. They are the so called plyometric workouts combined with power cleans and box jumps. The power cleans are meant for advanced sports training individuals who have gained considerable experience in this area.

As a matter of fact you need to do them under the direction and supervision of an accredited expert or simply the CSCS (certified strength and conditioning specialist). The specialist will take you through the basics and an advanced level of power cleans training. A good example of this includes the use of a box which is the level of your knees height. Standing upright with your arms on the side next to the box, jump upwards vigorously.

Make sure that your hands spread out as you land on top of the box. The weighted box hops are basically part of plyometric training. They should be high quality jumps that give you a two by two feet landing surface area. Make sure that the box you want to use is at least sixteen inches to thirty two inches high depending on your height and ability. For better results, you can use two dumbbells that are about five to ten pounds heavy.

Keep your arms straightened out through out the exercise. So you will stand in front of the box and then jump explosively as high as you can and land on top of it gently. Step down and repeat the exercise. Note that you must not jump down to the ground. Just step down calmly and go on and finish three sets each comprised of ten jumps. Since this is a heavy duty workout you should do it for two times only per seven days. Plyometrics can be very useful in your program on how to jump higher.

There are many different activities that are designed to help you in this area. There are basic exercises and high intensity plyometric activities for professionals. The best thing to do right now is to find someone who can train with you and preferably someone who is knowledgeable. Some of the activities that you would do include medicine ball passes and they demand at least two people who can exchange the ball. They also include quick sprints, hurdle jumps and other eccentric and concentric workouts.

For more information, please read this article on Plyometric exercises, and on how to jump higher


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Saturday, September 3, 2011

Why Arcade Game Machines Have Stood The Test Of Time

Considering the presence of hundreds and thousands of different computer game consoles in the industry today, most people would think that arcade game machines are obsolete. Of course, who would want to choose these bulky and heavy items over the highly advanced game consoles? Contrary to popular belief, arcade machines are still very popular, especially in commercial establishments. In fact, even kids nowadays still choose to play them in theaters, malls, and other types of commercial establishments. It is amazing that these machines are still so popular despite the newer versions of video games and game consoles. A lot of people ask why they have stood the test of time. What makes them so special that they are still enjoying a certain degree of popularity despite the presence of ultra-advanced video games? Why have arcade machines become classic? This article aims to take a look at why arcade game machines have stood the test of time. If you want to learn more about this topic, read on.

One of the reasons why they have stood the test of time is because they still provide a high degree of thrill and excitement for the entire family. Classic arcade games such as Pac-Man, Super Mario Brothers, Donkey Kong, Supersonic Air Force, Galactic Defender, and other types of games are still a lot of fun and are great for family outings and activities. Arcade games are also very accessible, and are located in strategic areas in malls, theaters and commercial establishments. Therefore, if you plan to unwind in theaters or malls, you can simply visit the recreational and arcade area and check the different types of games offered by an establishment. This is very convenient for families who want to do different types of activities in malls and commercial centers.

In addition, they are also very affordable and cost-efficient. You just need to pay for the games that you want to use, which costs a few dollars. The newer and more advanced game consoles are very expensive, and are disadvantageous for families who have a tight budget. Newer types of video games cost several hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars, and a lot of families just cannot afford to buy these items. Arcade game machines are therefore a great alternative because they do not cost as much as video game consoles. You just need to set aside a specific amount of money for your weekend trip to the arcade, and you will already be able to take part of the thrill and excitement of arcade games.

There are other reasons why arcade game machines have remained to be a classic. The reasons basically depend on each individual's purpose on why they still choose to remain loyal to these types of games. Adults can always revisit their childhood memories, whenever they play different types of arcade games. Based on these points, arcade game machines will probably remain in the industry for several more years, despite the presence of more advanced video game consoles in the market.

If you feel nostaligic and want to get an arcade game machine for your place, here are some important tips on what to consider when looking at arcade machines for sale as there is so much you need to think about to get a quality machine.


http://EzineArticles.com/6507844

Thursday, September 1, 2011

Is It Safe For You or Your Family To Be Sports Active?

The general well being and overall physical fitness of our bodies is something that many of us are beginning to pay greater attention to. This is partially due to the increased media attention on how people are beginning to take responsibility for their health instead of just taking it for granted.

At the beginning of a new year it is most common for people to make new resolutions when it comes to their health. They are going to quit smoking, lose weight, eat healthier and exercise. Many people will become involved in a sport to help them reach these goals. There is a risk involved however that is often not thought of. In order to become active in a sport one really needs to be somewhat physically fit to start with. Some sports demand a greater degree of fitness than others. For example, baseball is much more physically demanding than perhaps tennis would be, but even so tennis has its own demands on the body as well.

One of the risks of just jumping into a sport without being fit is the danger of it having an adverse effect on your heart. If your heart has not been subjected to regular cardio workouts it may not be able to withstand the sudden shock of being asked to work at an accelerated rate all of a sudden. If you have ever been a cigarette smoker and quit you know first hand how the body dramatically reacts to sudden changes.

The first thing that needs to be done before becoming a sports player is to start with a good physical examination. Advising your health care provider as to your intentions of joining a sport will allow them to focus on your medical condition, and whether it is good enough to withstand the activity that you are proposing. One should not think that these medical exams are only needed for the middle aged groups either. Youth who are going to participate in a sports activity for the first time should also be protected by being medically cleared first. There have been occasions where young people were not aware of a medical condition that if they had participated in strenuous activity could have had serious effects on them.

The medical check-up will act as a preventative for serious or perhaps life threatening situations but it will not prevent possible sports injuries that could occur as a result of not being in shape. It is not uncommon for a new baseball player to pull leg muscles when in the past they have only been used to walking and not running. Or, for the new tennis player, to pull a shoulder muscle because of starting off too enthusiastically in their sport.

Joining a sport for the first time takes some time to prepare for all the demands that it is going to put on the new player.

If you would like to learn some great ways of becoming involved in baseball then visit http://www.southshoresox.com/. Then if tennis is the game of interest be sure to check out http://www.tennisolutions.net/.


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