STAYING HEALTHY THROUGH THE SEASON
MENTAL AND PHYSICAL PREPARATION FOR YOUNG ATHLETES
You’re there cheering them on for every game, so proud of how your student athlete is doing. You cheer when they score and cringe when they take a hit or the ball lands just out of their reach. Sports are full of moments of joy and adrenaline, and they teach your children lifelong lessons — camaraderie, teamwork, strength, and trust. Helping your child prepare mentally and physically for their season can help make their passion for sports one that lasts a lifetime. Mobility and flexibility are always important when it comes to any physical activity, and cross training in the off season can be beneficial. Your child’s school might have an off-season training program, but if not, help them find an activity they enjoy. Swimming is a great, low-impact exercise they can do in an indoor pool during the winter. Being active in the off season, even if it’s just short jogs or long walks with the dog, will help their body stay in shape and make next season’s transition easier. If your child has had pain or injuries in the past, encourage them to start slow. Kids often want to
jump back to full speed right away, but easing back into the game will help their body adjust. They may have to work through some aches and pains, and taking a day off practice might be necessary. This is normal, but if your athlete is complaining of pain for more than a day or two, it might be a good idea to check in with their physical therapist. If your child is scared or concerned after an injury, that will be more of a mental hurdle for them to work through. An injury can be just as difficult on an athlete mentally as it is physically. If you notice a lack of motivation or other signs of depression, consider contacting a counselor to help them get back to their confident selves. Good communication between coaches and parents is key to helping your athlete succeed in all aspects of their life. Working with a physical therapist is also beneficial. Give Altitude PT a call today to find out how we can help your athlete in every season.
TAKE A BREAK
BEANS AND GREENS RIGATONI
INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
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12 ounces rigatoni pasta 1 bunch Tuscan kale, rinsed 1 15-ounce can cannellini (white kidney) beans 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
1. In a large stock pot, boil 6 quarts of liberally salted water. On another burner, heat a large skillet to medium-low. 2. Add pasta to boiling water and cook for 3 minutes less than the package recommends. 3. While pasta is cooking, add beans, red pepper, and 1 tablespoon of oil to skillet. Cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. 4. Add cooked pasta, kale, and 1 cup pasta water to skillet. Toss vigorously as kale cooks, about 4 minutes. 5. Transfer to bowls, top with a squeeze of lemon, sprinkle with cheese or salt, and serve.
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1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
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Juice of 1 lemon
Salt, for pasta water and to taste 2 ounces fresh grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (optional)
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