How to Survive Football Practice

How to Survive Football Practice
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Football practice begins with conditioning drills that develop your wind and stamina. No matter how hard you might train before practices start, the coaches work you harder than anticipated. Next come grueling drills to condition your body for hitting. Staying with it will pay off when the season starts and you're playing in games. Surviving until that point is key to making the lineup.

Step 1

Eat a proper breakfast every day. Avoid greasy foods and snacks such as sweet rolls that can slow your system and spike blood sugar levels. Plan your pre-practice meal so your digestive system is not working at its peak when you take the practice field. Maintain a balanced diet and drink plenty of water. Get plenty of rest between practices.

Step 2

Warm up before practice begins. Light stretching and mild drills such as jumping jacks and running in place get your body ready for the faster pace of football practice. Have your own water and try to get a sweat going before your coaches call the team together for warm-ups. This prepares your body and improves your attitude about practice.

Step 3

Man up and be tough. Football practice is harder than games, and the price you pay for playing is practicing well. Show your toughness and be a team leader. Be the first one in drills and volunteer to do anything the coaches need. When you're tired, teammates and coaches will forgive you for taking a knee or needing a drink.

Step 4

Encourage your teammates openly and they will return the favor. It's your job to be enthusiastic and draw other strong personalities together. This will become the nucleus of the team. If you're not the leader, fall in behind and support the leader.

Step 5

Invite friends and family members to your practices. Getting support during the hardest times is important to your motivation. You're out there because you want to play on a team that represents your people and your town. Stay with it and work hard.

References

Article reviewed by Jeannette Belliveau Last updated on: Sep 10, 2010

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