Just because it’s fun doesn’t mean it’s not a work out.

School is out for summer, but keeping yourself active between sports seasons will help you jump right back into the action next fall without breaking a sweat (though sweating is definitely recommended!)

1. Practice your passions! There are so many ways to build yourself up for soccer, field hockey, cross country, swimming- nothing will enhance your team experience and success on the field like regular practice! Sharpening your skills when it comes to your sport will definitely pay off come September. Keep it fun- don’t limit yourself to just kicking the ball around or polishing up your backstroke. Playing volleyball with friends at the beach, going on hikes, swimming in a local pond, rock climbing, and even playing a good old fashioned game of street tag will all enhance your prowess on the field. You can also support your daily activity with additional strength and weight training- and of course, eating a well balanced diet will all contribute to your success.

2. Focus on health. Whether or not you notice a difference physically, your body changes rapidly during the off season, and ramps back up when you jump back into a sport during the fall. It’s important to consider calorie-intake and adapt your lifestyle and eating habits to properly fuel any new routine and workout (or lack thereof!) Always reevaluate what you need to add to your diet to succeed, and develop a realistic sleep schedule so your body can properly rest and rejuvenate for the next day. Always be mindful to stock up on protein, fruits and vegetables, and drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.

3. Hone in on your talents. All athletes occupy different roles on a team—some are skilled when it comes to defensive plays, others with making goals or participating in assists. Some players have speed, while others have strategy or strength. Find find what feels best for you and take note of how you can best contribute to the team. If you have trouble discerning your role on the field, talk to your coach and come up with a plan.

4. Examine Your Social Media Trail. Think before you post- and take a look back at what you’ve posted in the past- when comes to your digital trail. Not only are you representing yourself when you use social media to connect with the word, but you’re also representing your team. Posting negative, slandering, or illicit content can have serious repercussions that can affect your status on a team or at school- it can also affect the way recruiters, colleges, and future employers view you as a potential member of their community. If you are considering an athletic scholarship down the line, even posting about personal sports injuries or making commitments to multiple schools can also hinder your chances of being recruited. Clean up your social media presence- you can learn more about social media ethics here.

How do you sneak in a little fall sport prep over the summer? Share your tips for staying active (and still having fun) in the comments below!