Athletic training is a full-time job, I train a lot, 6 days a week, 2-3 hours per day and as a full-time student, a coach, and with a part-time job my schedule is full.
“A dream doesn’t become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination and hard work.” – Colin Powell
Besides regular competitions locally, provincially, nationally and internationally, along with the unique opportunities of Canada Winter Games and World Indoor Championships, I have been without any break for over two straight years. Personally, I never realized just how tired and exhausted I was, however my coach did. Therefore, I am on a two-week vacation from shooting and training.
There are many benefits for taking a vacation including…
- Recharge & Avoid Burnout – Taking regular time to relax helps avoid burn-out and get us back to feeling our best.
- Overall Well-being – Lower stress, better sleep and better mood will improve your overall energy levels.
- Friends and Family – Reconnect and strengthen relationships with loved ones and reaffirm the support you have behind you.
- Performance – Better focus and re-energizing will influence your performance in a positive manner in the end.
The key is taking a good amount of time off from the stresses of training and competing will recharge your batteries and help you reach those long-term goals. Personally, I recommend at least one to two week break between indoor and outdoor seasons and easing back into to your full-time training programs.
A good vacation is over when you begin to yearn for your work. – Morris Fishbein
Remember to stay active to during a vacation like swimming, taking a walk, going for a bike ride, going to the batting cages, or playing laser tag. Remaining active will make it easier to re-start your training program after the vacation is over.
“The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary.” – Vincent Lombardi
Jordan Sequillion 