By this time of year, those of us who made New Year’s resolutions to get in shape have likely already abandoned them. With March being one of the busiest months of the year for university students, most are dedicating far more time to finishing assignments and preparing for exams than hitting the gym.
For those of you looking to take advantage of your university “off-season” to reach those lofty fitness goals you abandoned not so long ago, Varsity Blues volleyball player Alexandra Hudson has some words of wisdom.
One of the first things you have to do is “look at your motivation,” Hudson says. “If you really want it, look at what you need to do to get to that level. It if involves becoming stronger, becoming faster, or becoming more skilled, do whatever it takes to get to where you want to be.”
WENDY GU/THE VARSITY
It’s important when you start training to set short-term goals for yourself. Quitting during a tough workout is that much easier when you don’t have anything to reach for. Sometimes having a goal that’s a few months away can cause you to lose focus, so it’s a good idea to set weekly or monthly ones that are attainable, but also difficult enough that you really need to work for them.
When planning your exercise routine, get some help creating one that’s tailored for you and your goals. For her off-season training, Hudson has been focusing on improving her strength through Olympic lifts — cleans, snatches, squats — and using bands for shoulder work. She’s also been doing spinning classes; variety is important in order to maximize your gains. You not only need to train hard but also to train smart.
Hudson also recommends partnering up for workouts. “I find going with a partner to the gym really helps me and especially other partners who play beach volleyball with me or who have the same goals in mind.”
Having someone with you in the gym ensures you have someone to push you and help you if needed.
Sometimes going to the gym can get monotonous, so look for new or different activities to try out. Ever consider competing in a triathlon? Perhaps climbing the CN Tower? Or even trying something new like dragonboat racing? Toronto will host numerous events like these in the coming months that offer everyone a chance to get out and be active with others. If you’re struggling to get motivated, the prospect of competing with others watching you could be just the incentive you need! As a bonus, most of these events help out great causes as well.
If your goal is to play a certain sport, the best way to prepare for the rigours of a full season is to practise that sport. Playing sports is a great way to get in shape, make new friends, and give in to your competitive side. Options to consider are U of T’s intramural soccer and co-ed softball leagues, which run during the summer months and are available to all university students who want to participate.
Everyone who goes through a training schedule experiences tough times when they want to give up. If you don’t have moments of doubt, you’re not training hard enough. During those tough times, remember the words Muhammad Ali, who confessed “I hated every minute of training, but I said, ‘Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.’”
