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What are some ways I can get better at sports before I start high school ?
I’m 13 and I need to know some tips on how I can get better at sports I’m a female so the sports I can do that the school provides are (cheerleading, Volleyball, Golf, soccer, track and field) so if you have any tips let me know!
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5 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
745
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
David Epstein, who wrote the book "Range" had some good suggestions regarding this topic.
It is said that "Generalists" rule the world, and those are the people who participated in many sports as they progressed into high school. Basically, I would become a Generalist. A person, like a decathlete, who plays many sports, and develops skills in many areas.
Triathletes are also like this. If you put them in a swimming pool, they will win a lot of races, put them on a bike, they might win the Tour de France, have them run a cross country race, they will win it.
Focus on what you enjoy. Play your favorite sports that are in season. Train for them as they approach during the coming year. I think you will find your skills and abilities will cross over into other sports, and your development will increase by being a generalist, and not specializing in one sport or season.
It is said that "Generalists" rule the world, and those are the people who participated in many sports as they progressed into high school. Basically, I would become a Generalist. A person, like a decathlete, who plays many sports, and develops skills in many areas.
Triathletes are also like this. If you put them in a swimming pool, they will win a lot of races, put them on a bike, they might win the Tour de France, have them run a cross country race, they will win it.
Focus on what you enjoy. Play your favorite sports that are in season. Train for them as they approach during the coming year. I think you will find your skills and abilities will cross over into other sports, and your development will increase by being a generalist, and not specializing in one sport or season.
Updated
Tarun’s Answer
Physical fitness goes a long way to conquer any sport that you like. Keep yourself active and maintain a good diet.
Then for any sport that you're interested in:
1) Watch sports matches
2) Get coaching lessons if you're determined
3) Join pickup groups
4) Practice solo drills and trainings
Then for any sport that you're interested in:
1) Watch sports matches
2) Get coaching lessons if you're determined
3) Join pickup groups
4) Practice solo drills and trainings
Updated
Kris’s Answer
Its great to see that you are interested in competitive sports. I participated in Basketball, Volleyball, and fast-pitch softball when I was in high school, and then went on the volleyball and track and field in college.
I used to run every morning, just a couple of miles. Some days, just a light jog. Some days speed work - like sprint from one point to another along the way. I would sprint fire hydrant to fire hydrant. I practiced ball handling skills. Repetitive motion to gain muscle memory, improve reaction time.
Running up hill, performing planks, stretching and yoga all help. Mostly you just need to build endurance so you don't get winded. I wasn't always the most skilled person on the team, but I could make sure I had the most energy.
Good luck to you!
I used to run every morning, just a couple of miles. Some days, just a light jog. Some days speed work - like sprint from one point to another along the way. I would sprint fire hydrant to fire hydrant. I practiced ball handling skills. Repetitive motion to gain muscle memory, improve reaction time.
Running up hill, performing planks, stretching and yoga all help. Mostly you just need to build endurance so you don't get winded. I wasn't always the most skilled person on the team, but I could make sure I had the most energy.
Good luck to you!
Updated
Rachel’s Answer
I agree with the advice from Kris, and would also add a few things. See if the high school you plan to go to in the future offers summer skills camps for the sports you're interested in! It's a great way to meet the coaches and maybe your future teammates while working on your sport skills.
I'd also like to add that nutrition and sleep are SO important for young athletes. Taking care of your body by eating healthy meals and snacks, hydrating with lots of water, and getting good quality sleep will help you recover after exercise and perform better in your sport(s).
Best of luck!!
I'd also like to add that nutrition and sleep are SO important for young athletes. Taking care of your body by eating healthy meals and snacks, hydrating with lots of water, and getting good quality sleep will help you recover after exercise and perform better in your sport(s).
Best of luck!!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6182
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Zoe,
Boosting Athletic Abilities Prior to High School
Here's a handy guide to help you bolster your athletic abilities before you embark on your high school journey, specifically focusing on the sports you've expressed interest in:
1. Cheerleading:
Enhance your flexibility and strength through regular training to better your jumps and stunts.
Boost your coordination and rhythm by mastering dance routines.
Participate in cheerleading camps or workshops to acquire new skills and techniques.
2. Volleyball:
Concentrate on honing your serving, passing, setting, and hitting abilities.
Engage in agility and footwork exercises to improve your court movement.
Join local volleyball leagues or clubs to gain more practical experience and playing time.
3. Golf:
Enroll in professional coaching classes to perfect your swing technique.
Regularly practice your putting and chipping to enhance your short game.
Play golf with seasoned players to understand strategy and course management better.
4. Soccer:
Regularly practice to improve your dribbling, passing, shooting, and defensive abilities.
Boost your fitness level by including cardio exercises and strength training in your routine.
Join a local soccer team or league to gain more on-field experience.
5. Track and Field:
Focus on event-specific training based on your preferences (e.g., sprints, long jump, high jump).
Engage in speed drills, endurance training, and proper form exercises for each event.
Participate in track camps or workshops to learn from experienced coaches and athletes.
Besides these sport-specific suggestions, here are some general tips to help you excel in any sport:
Maintain dedication and consistency in your training routine.
Set personal goals to monitor progress and keep yourself motivated.
Stay mentally sharp during games or competitions by visualizing success.
Be receptive to your coaches’ feedback and be willing to learn from them.
Take care of your health by ensuring adequate rest, hydration, and a balanced diet.
Check out my AUTOBIOGRAPHY for information on nutrient sources that can boost your performance.
By adhering to these tips and investing the necessary effort, you can elevate your athletic skills before starting high school. Remember, consistency, dedication, and a positive attitude are the primary ingredients in the recipe for a successful athlete.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Cheerleader Magazine: This resource offers valuable insights into cheerleading techniques, training advice, and resources for aspiring cheerleaders aiming to boost their skills.
USA Volleyball: USA Volleyball provides coaching resources, skill development guides, and training programs designed to help volleyball players at all levels enhance their game.
PGA Junior Golf Camps: PGA Junior Golf Camps offer expert guidance for young golfers aiming to develop their skills in a fun and supportive setting. Their programs focus on all aspects of the game, from swing mechanics to course strategy.
May God Bless You,
JC.
Boosting Athletic Abilities Prior to High School
Here's a handy guide to help you bolster your athletic abilities before you embark on your high school journey, specifically focusing on the sports you've expressed interest in:
1. Cheerleading:
Enhance your flexibility and strength through regular training to better your jumps and stunts.
Boost your coordination and rhythm by mastering dance routines.
Participate in cheerleading camps or workshops to acquire new skills and techniques.
2. Volleyball:
Concentrate on honing your serving, passing, setting, and hitting abilities.
Engage in agility and footwork exercises to improve your court movement.
Join local volleyball leagues or clubs to gain more practical experience and playing time.
3. Golf:
Enroll in professional coaching classes to perfect your swing technique.
Regularly practice your putting and chipping to enhance your short game.
Play golf with seasoned players to understand strategy and course management better.
4. Soccer:
Regularly practice to improve your dribbling, passing, shooting, and defensive abilities.
Boost your fitness level by including cardio exercises and strength training in your routine.
Join a local soccer team or league to gain more on-field experience.
5. Track and Field:
Focus on event-specific training based on your preferences (e.g., sprints, long jump, high jump).
Engage in speed drills, endurance training, and proper form exercises for each event.
Participate in track camps or workshops to learn from experienced coaches and athletes.
Besides these sport-specific suggestions, here are some general tips to help you excel in any sport:
Maintain dedication and consistency in your training routine.
Set personal goals to monitor progress and keep yourself motivated.
Stay mentally sharp during games or competitions by visualizing success.
Be receptive to your coaches’ feedback and be willing to learn from them.
Take care of your health by ensuring adequate rest, hydration, and a balanced diet.
Check out my AUTOBIOGRAPHY for information on nutrient sources that can boost your performance.
By adhering to these tips and investing the necessary effort, you can elevate your athletic skills before starting high school. Remember, consistency, dedication, and a positive attitude are the primary ingredients in the recipe for a successful athlete.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Cheerleader Magazine: This resource offers valuable insights into cheerleading techniques, training advice, and resources for aspiring cheerleaders aiming to boost their skills.
USA Volleyball: USA Volleyball provides coaching resources, skill development guides, and training programs designed to help volleyball players at all levels enhance their game.
PGA Junior Golf Camps: PGA Junior Golf Camps offer expert guidance for young golfers aiming to develop their skills in a fun and supportive setting. Their programs focus on all aspects of the game, from swing mechanics to course strategy.
May God Bless You,
JC.