I spent some time in Florida, trying to improve my golfing skills and let the January posting go by the wayside.
Now that February 1st has passed the vast majority of college lacrosse programs are well under way. The weather has cooperated in the northeast to allow teams to “taste the outdoors” a little sooner than normal; though the spring sport that we participate in still has that winter glow to it; with under armor, hats and gloves still required.
We’ve found that, because of the relatively mild temperatures, our players are energized to the point of pushing a bit too hard. We’ve experienced a rash of muscle pulls that are affecting pre-season participation. Those of you are involved in preparing your charges for the upcoming season keep a watchful eye on your team stretching regime; make sure they really are stretching not just going through the motions. We had tried a new approach to our procedures, allowing for more player input, not a great idea. Our trainer suggested we return to what was done last year. We have seen a major improvement in a short time.
The Point of this musing is: The kids may be very comfortable with static stretching, but, there is no positive affect stretching a cold muscle. Dynamic Ballistic stretching can do the trick in less time with better results. Contact your athletic trainers for the latest in these types of stretching procedures. It can reduce a multitude of problems from occurring.
Best of luck starting the season!
