You should spend a considerable time in training during the season focusing on basketball plays, team camaraderie, and mainly team-focused abilities, as it should be. But it’s all about self-improvement throughout the offseason. As a player, you’ve finally got enough time to go to the sports hall and devote the necessary time to improving your game.
The summer is a great time to work on individual abilities that should be acquired and afterward combined with the skills of other teammates in order for a team to succeed. Here are several offseason strategies for growing players to make the most of their summertime.
Learn the proper way to play the sport
Practice doesn’t make perfect; practice makes everlasting! Start understanding how to do things correctly initially, and then exercise again and over. Make sure you’re repeating positive behaviors and interacting with professionals who can provide feedback and identify faults before they grow in a routine. Also, ensure that you play with the right equipment. Get together with teammates and buy professional bulk basketballs that you can use during your training.
Challenge yourselves
You are usually on your own when exercising in the offseason, and most of your training is a competition with yourself. Keep a record of your performance by noting the number of shots you make, the number of times you can execute a ball-handling drill in 30 seconds, and so on. Anything in which you can set a goal and work to achieve it.
Make a bond with the ball
Controlling the basketball, particularly with the left hand, is one of the most important areas for younger players to improve. Set aside time each day for twenty minutes of static ball handling to improve your basketball skills. Keep in mind that going to the gym isn’t required. Use your basement, garage, or driveway as a storage space. Push yourself to complete each drill quickly and comfortably. It’s fine to drop the ball; that’s how you improve. Did you know that in order not to drop the ball so often you need to play with the right ball size? Do you play with 27.5 basketball or 28.5 basketball?
Perform drills at real speed
This can be done by yourself or with the help of other players. Begin slowly to master the appropriate technique, then progressively increase your speed until you are pushing yourself beyond your comfort zone.
Join a basketball camp if you have the opportunity
Summer camps are a great way to sharpen your abilities, learn new techniques, and have a good time! They also provide an excellent opportunity to network with other participants.
Rest and recuperate
Don’t overlook the importance of rest and recovery in achieving outstanding results. If you’re going to be doing a rigorous workout program in August, make sure you give your body time to heal. I recommend attempting to obtain eight hours of sleep per night and, if possible, sneaking in a fast 20-30 minute short nap. I also advise getting one full day every week off from all vigorous activity. On that day, you can shoot some free throws and stretch, but nothing too intense. I also suggest taking three to four days off immediately before school starts to allow your body a chance to recover before your team’s preseason activities begin.
In basketball, the summer is where you can truly separate yourself from the competition. You have all the time in the world to go to the gym and improve your game. However, it necessitates a great level of dedication. So, question yourself this: are you prepared to rule this summer?
Alton Clarke was born and raised in Syracuse. He has written for MSNBC, The Business Insider and Passport Magazine. In regards to academics, Alton earned a degree from St. John’s University. Alton covers entertainment and culture stories here at Diving daily.