Athletes are known for their drive and dedication to their sport. But they're also human so staying motivated when you are not in season can seem impossible. However, staying fit in the off-season sets you up for success when it comes time for real practice and games. Here are 6 tips to help you find motivation in your off-season. 

Create an accountability group.

Asking a couple of teammates or friends to work out with you can help keep you motivated, as you are not just showing up for yourself but for everyone in the group. Even if it's just one person, the buddy system can help keep you accountable. 

Make a plan

If you plan to work out Monday, Wednesday, or Friday then stick with it. Building time into your schedule will help keep you consistent. There is also no question as to when you are going to get your workout in–you know exactly when you are supposed to.  

Related: 6 Ways to Conquer your Summer Fitness Packet

Give yourself rest days

Of course, it is important to stay in shape in the off-season, but don't feel the need to burn yourself out. Taking rest days is just as important as the workouts themselves. It will also make it easier to get through a workout if you know you have a rest day to look forward to later. Remember: it's wise to listen to your body. 

Set goals

Goal-setting in the off-season can help you feel like you are making progress. So ask yourself what you want to accomplish this summer. For example, if you want to get quicker, how are you doing to do that? Once you figure that out, make a plan to accomplish that goal and write it down. Goals big or small can help keep you on track and sharing your goals with a teammate or friend is also great for staying motivated.

Try something new

If you play basketball, maybe try playing soccer a bit or vice versa. This can be a great way to keep your workouts new and fun. It can also help work muscles you don't usually focus on. Trying something new can switch things up and become exciting. 

Make a new playlist

Making an upbeat playlist can get you excited to listen during your workout. It can fire you up to get through a tough workout and keep things fun!

Related: The Best Workout Playlist: 23 Songs with Something for Everyone

Overall, finding that drive within yourself during the off season can be difficult, but it's also where you have the most room to develop and improve as a player. Finding friends or teammates to do a workout with you could make it more fun, making a plan allows you to be consistent, having rest days gives you time to recover, goals give you something to accomplish, and trying something new and making a new playlist are great tips to switch things up from your usual schedule. 

Take the opportunity in your off season to really think about what you want your outcome to be. Do you want to walk into pre-season prepared and in shape, or do you want to be struggling to catch up. This can set the tone for your season, so take advantage of the time you have. 

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* Originally published on July 5, 2022, by Casey Chizmazia