Athletes do many activities in the off-season such as weight lifting, core workouts, and calisthenics. Cross Country and Track runner McCovey Jackson says he enjoys his time off, letting his body recover, and spending more time with his family doing activities, such as hiking and upper body workouts. Some coaches encourage their athletes to try different sports in the off-season to stay fit and prevent burnout from doing the same sport year-round, such as swimming, running, and cycling. Coaches also encourage athletes to identify their weaknesses and set goals for themselves next season. Taking time to recover mentally is also very important. Coach Tweed encourages his Cross Country athletes, especially his freshmen, to try different sports in the off-season, he says “There’s many great athletes and coaches at Cypress High and athletes should try lots of different sports to find what they like the most.”
Erin Baek says she found this cross-country season very fun, she improved a lot and was able to push herself a lot more. The team did core workouts and carried that into the off-season. “We still practice just not as hard, but I take care of myself more by stretching and core” In the two weeks off she still ran but was able to focus more on school. She says “Coach Tweed encouraged me when I was struggling and told me to keep pushing myself, and Coach Monty encouraged me by correcting me”
Ultimately, the off-season is crucial for athletes to recharge physically and mentally, setting the foundation for a successful and sustainable athletic career.
