Getting ready the right way

As winter break approaches I think everyone's attention starts turning towards preparing for softball and baseball season.  That means being ready to take swings, throw, field, and run.  It is important to make sure your body is prepared to handle this sport specific type of activity to avoid overuse injuries and be at you best.  Try to break away from the old model of running long distance, doing endless crunches, and being afraid to incorporate true strength training exercises.  Performance training has really grown and developed over just the past few years in the sports of softball and baseball.  The top Division 1 college and professional programs follow a basic model of training that can be incorporated as early as 5-6th grade thru high school.  I truly believe that, like being a teacher/accountant/engineer/lawyer, strength and conditioning is becoming a profession.  Certified (see NSCA or CSCCA) strength coaches have minimum requirements they must meet in the form of education, testing, continuing education, and ethical standards.  The days of going into the gym and doing push-ups and gassers until you puke is giving way to training programs that are based on science and results.  Don't miss out!