The trap of specialization

“They’ve only had one week off.”

Our boys have started back to soccer. And the over-use injuries are starting to pile up.

My cousin’s U13 team team went deep into nationals. Didn’t finish their season until the end of July. Had one week off, then had soccer camps the following two weeks. And now the season is here.

Totally ridiculous, but that’s the kids’ sports world in which we live.

One of the biggest injury problems I see with the kids is that they are so specialized – solely focused on soccer, baseball, basketball, hockey, etc.

Similarly, I see the specialization problem with a lot of golfers. They are focused on their game to the exclusion of other forms of physical activity. And that’s when injuries happen.

Instead, we need to engage in a variety of physical exercises to promote better joint mobility, reduced risk of injuries, and most importantly, better performance on the course.

Of course, I lean on strength training to build a more resilient and adaptable body.

I lift weights because I enjoy it. But, there’s no substitute for protecting your body than getting stronger.

Strength really is the mother of all athletic qualities.

And if lifting weights isn’t your jam (I sure hope it is), then I highly encourage you to do exercises you enjoy. Exercises that give you a mix of different angles. Exercises that have unique benefits you can’t get from swinging a club over and over.

Swimming is a great low-impact activity that works wonders on your joints. Cycling boosts your heart health and strengthens your lower body with minimal impact. The uneven terrain of hiking engages a lot muscle groups.

Again, you need to find something you enjoy doing, otherwise you simply won’t do it.

Now, if you enjoy weight training, we’ve got you covered in the 18STRONG Membership.
Do these two things:

  1. Pick the program that works with your goals and experience
  2. Do the work

That’s it.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got some golfers to “un-specialize”:)

Your #1 Fan,
Jeff Pelizzaro

PS – If for some crazy reason you’re not a member yet (which is lunacy:), you can take it out for a test drive for the next 7 days here: https://www.go18strong.com/app-test-drive