In order to be the BEST ball player that YOU can be, it is VERY important to maintain proper physical fitness, eat a healthy diet, get the proper amount of rest, hydrate, and workout EVERY day!!! Being physically fit helps to stay mentally fit and empowers you to perform at the highest level. Prepare your BODY and MIND for ALL that you do….and of course, GAGPTH!!
Try to sleep eight(8) hours each night and get to bed at a reasonable hour..never go to or have a sleepover the night before a game.
Eat breakfast. This will provide you energy for a good start to each day and help so you will not overeat during the rest of the day.
ALWAYS use stairs…over a year this will provide a lot of exercise.
Drink WATER!!!! Whether you are thirsty or not try to drink at least 6-8 ounces per day. It will help “oil” your joints, burn fat, flush toxins, and help condition your skin. AVOID soda pop, sweet juices, and sugary drinks.
Eat balanced meals, three per day, with at least five colors on the plate. EAT BRIGHT!! Do not skip meals and try to eat 3 veggies and 3 fruits per day: orange(cantaloupe, sweet potatoes, apricots) and dark green(broccoli, spinach, greens, collards). Limit sugar intake…candy, sugar gum, ice cream, etc.
Work out EVERY day!! Try to do 30-40 minutes of physical “work”..stretch, run, skip rope, side jumps, juggle, and the “daily dozen”(sit ups, pull ups, push ups). Stretch every muscle, run sprints, jog distances, and get your aerobic heartbeat up.
Eat fiber and reduce fat. Fiber is grains, fruits, and veggies!! Reduce fats by limiting burgers, fries, chips, etal..all the “greasy gang”.
Throw EVERY day but maintain the “dignity of your arm”: If your arm is sore or hurts DO NOT throw and tell your parents and coach. It is good to throw every day but not if it hurts your arm. Also, stay away from side arm or throwing breaking pitches. Use the four(4) seam grip and throw “over-the-top”(9 to 12 to 6).
AVOID alcohol, tobacco(chew included), drugs, and steroids. YOU do not need to “test” them..they are proven losers!!!
Hug your parents and be the BEST YOU can be!!!