Knowledge

Browse topics and peruse the articles regarding everything we discuss at track in order to get your best.

First, hey smelly teenagers, here's how to clean athletic wear the correct way.

Most of the knowledge below can be summed up with the following commandments:

1. Thou shalt hydrate.

• • • Most young athletes only drink half of what they need.  Fatigue hits faster if you don't drink enough.  The body needs time to process water too.  Drink at least 1.5 bottles (20ish ounces) two-three hours before working out, and another 20oz up until 30 minutes before.  Daily, aim for 1/2 your body weight in ounces.  Read more here.

2. Remember to keep holy sleep and Sabbath day(s).

   • Sleep 8-10 hours a night (yes, it's a sacrifice of time).  Take 1-2 days off a week so your body can recover.  Read more about sleep and how it affects athletics here.

3. Honor and listen to your body.

   • This comes with experience, but basically, listen to your gut.  There's soreness and there's pain.  If pain/discomfort is getting worse, it's your body warning you something is wrong - see a coach and our trainer.  A week of x-training to get back to 100% is better than a week of "pushing through it" only to then be out many weeks and need a doctor.

4. Thou shalt eat wisely.

   • Basically, eat a healthy meal 2-3 hours before working out.  Whole grains, peanut butter, lean meat (chicken, turkey), fruit/veggies all work.  Just don't drink soda or sports/energy drinks.  Sports drinks really only matter just before (a few gulps 20 minutes prior), during (just some sips), or just after a workout - actually, the best recovery drink is chocolate milk; read about it here.

5. Thou shalt not commit negativity.

   • Jack Daniels - the esteemed running coach - notes that the mental capacity to endure discomfort is the single-most significant factor that prevents young athletes from reaching their true potential.  Science also proves that positive mental strategies more often result in better performances; the mind is a muscle, so train it.  Use the following in competition, in a workout, during core, a lift...:

     • Remember, it's temporary and will end.

     • "Embrace the suck."  "Get comfortable feeling uncomfortable."

     • Find a positive mantra and focus on it.

     • Think of the longterm benefits, or your goals.

     • Find a deeper purpose/meaning/feeling to push.