Are You Ready For The Preseason? A Simple Guide To Help You Prepare

It’s the end of July and NFL training camps are getting under way. You know what that means: preseason for all fall sports is just around the corner!

That’s right; while it’s hard to believe that summer is nearly at an end, it’s time once again to begin preparing for the new season. No matter what sport you play, there are a few things that you need to accomplish before you join your team for training camp.

Here is a simple guide to help get you prepared for the long season ahead:

1. Let’s Get Physical

You often hear stories or read articles about professional athletes showing up to training camp or preseason out of shape. The thinking is that they’ll simply play themselves into shape during the exhibition season.

Well, while that may have worked for players like Shaq, you’re not Shaq. You need to show up strong, in shape and ready to play; you don’t want to be the weak link.

You should use the summer to train in order to impress your coaches during the preseason and claim your rightful spot on the team. Don’t expect to show up unprepared and just be able to perform at your best.

2. Check Yourself, Don’t Wreck Yourself

Much like the beach gear that goes neglected all winter, you’ve likely had your equipment stored away since last season ended.

As the preseason approaches, it’s time to break out your gear, knock off the cobwebs and check to make sure it all still fits, protects and complies with league rules.

Do you notice any damage or wear and tear? Has your league implemented any new requirements for protective gear? Make sure you check and update, repair or replace any equipment that may be out of date or dangerous to play with.

3. What’s The Scenario?

How did last season end? What were your personal takeaways? Are there areas of your game where you need to improve?

It’s important to go over any year-end review you had with your coach — or anything you took away from the team or yourself personally — and make those adjustments.

Similarly, if your coach shared any new plays or strategies for the upcoming season ahead of time, or if your team changed coaches over the offseason, be sure to familiarize yourself with them before you arrive. You may have questions when you regroup and you don’t want to be the one who has to sit and watch because they don’t know the new system.

It’s time to get ready for the preseason! Make sure you’re in shape, your equipment is ready to go and that you’re mentally prepared for the long season ahead.

Are You Ready?

Author Bio

Travis Armideo, marketing manager at Gladiator Custom Mouthguards, is a lifelong ice hockey player. He began playing for various clubs at a young age and continued onto junior teams, while also playing lacrosse at the collegiate level. Travis is still heavily involved in athletics, coaching high school and youth ice hockey athletes, as well as playing men’s league ice hockey on a regular basis.