Staying Fit After College Sports

Many of the online members of Emerge Fitness Community are or have been athletes. But making the transition from athletics into adulthood isn't always easy. For many, the loss of structure and guidance that athletic teams provide leaves them overwhelmed and lost in their fitness journey. Without the structure of a team, many former athletes can find themselves overwhelmed and unmotivated. Here are four strategies former athletes can use to regain their fitness and stay active.

Have Fun

As an athlete training can be rigorous and start to feel like a job. Taking the same approach with your post athletic fitness routines can become repetitive and boring. Finding joy in your new routines will help you stay motivated. Incorporate new activities you genuinely enjoy and give yourself the flexibility to have fun. You can still train with intention, using the same methods as before but also leave room for those feel good movements you opted out of while in season. Add in some supersets to target specific muscle groups or switch from strength routines to the occasional higher intensity workout. Programmed effectively you can still see big gains and train safely while having a little fun.

Create A Plan:

As a college athlete, you likely didn't have to take much time to think about what to do in the gym. That doesn't have to change. Outsourcing your programming to a personal trainer or online coach can help give you some direction. This will allow you to keep some structure in your routines and keep you accountable. Avoid the decision fatigue by having a guide towards your goals. Try finding a coach/trainer that uses methods to those in sports performance. Sports performance or strength and conditioning coaches have the background to understand your experience and guide you through yournew era of life in fitness.

Set A Goal:

As an athlete, you have been in constant competition. Setting goals for yourself in your fitness plan can help keep you motivated, providing direction and focus. Set measurable and attainable goals, such as running a 5k, improving personal best in the weight room, or mastering a new skill. Goals will help you have something to work towards and likely fill that competitive itch you were born with.

Move More:

It might not seem like a lot but the difference in movement as an athlete to a full-time work from home adult is extreme. As a an athlete, there's overall more movement in your day to day. From multiple practices, training, and walks around campus you are constantly on the go. Keeping movement as a priority in your daily routines can enhance your overall health in the long run. Aim to move more, and not just as more time spent in the gym but with overall day-to-day activities. Start the day with a walk, and take regular breaks in your work day to stretch. Every bit of movement counts.

Transitioning from college athletics to adult life doesn't mean you have to give up on fitness. By finding joy in your activities, setting a plan, establishing goals, and incorporating more movement into your day, you can maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.