Hello Gymnastics Medicine Followers!

My name is Sarah Brownstein, and I am one of the student board founders/leaders. For me, the new year means that competition season is starting as well as a new semester of school. Competing at the collegiate level while in graduate school is definitely challenging, as I have to make sure I stay up with my classes and perform to the best of my ability in gymnastics.

Luckily, I have several strategies that help me make sure I can accomplish all of this while staying healthy; these can help you get through the season no matter what level you are competing or what year you are in school!

1. COMMUNICATE!

I always make sure to communicate with my coaches to tell them if anything is hurting so that they can help me modify assignments as needed. Also, communicate with your teachers so they know you might be missing classes due to competitions and travel.

2. TAKE CARE OF YOUR BODY!

There are so many things that fall under this, but for me, I make sure I am getting the treatment I need for aches and pains, as well as previous injuries. I make sure to ice my knee and shoulder every day, and, I am never too far from my heating pad or cupping set, both of which help me loosen up tight muscles.

3. FUEL!

During the season, especially with school, days can be long and demanding. It is SO important to give your body adequate fuel so that it can do all you are asking of it. I try to have four meals a day during the season: a nice big breakfast around 8 am, lunch around 12 pm in between my classes, a smaller late lunch/early dinner around 3 before practice, and a big dinner around 7 or 8 when I get home from practice.

4. SLEEP!

Of course, there is a lot to do between school and gym and everything else you have going on, but getting a good night’s sleep every night is most definitely worth the time it takes! I try to get at least 8 hours of sleep every night, and even a little extra before competitions or on my few days off.

I hope these tips help you perform your best this year and help you finish the season healthy and happy! If these help you, share them with your friends and tell them about the GymnasticsMedicine student group too!

Happy New Year! And good luck this season!

Sarah

Sarah Brownstein is a college gymnast at the College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, VA and is a member of the Gymnastics Medicine student group.