Coach’s Corner – Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance

Coach’s Corner – Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance

Pretty self-explanatory. I heard this phrase first at 14 years old. Our ski coach had it printed on shirts for us. I thought it was just some old corny phrase, but soon found how genius it was. When we wore our team shirts, it was a reminder that everything we choose to do with our time, could either be preparing us, or leaving us with poor performance. To this day, my mind is going 24/7 thinking of ways to make my days easier, filled with less stress, and better prepared.

For eating – Prepare you meals ahead of time, have them in containers already weighed out, pack your lunch for the next day. Make your shakes the night before, for a grab and go breakfast….

For Training – Back your gear the night before the Montrose ride, have you bike clean and ready to go. Make sure you have your flat kit. Anything need to be fixed? Handle it the day before, not when you show up for the ride. Back a pump in case someone doesn’t have one. Bring extra food and water to make sure you are hydrated and fueled for training. Need a tired glued? Why are you worrying about it two days before nationals? Handle it well before….

And for everything else life brings as well.

Excuses are just excuses. If a 14 year old, chubby, giggly, complete novice nordic ski athlete can choke down the responsibility that phrase holds, you can too. Don’t let excuses and poor preparation ruin your training ride, your food plan, and your family. Think ahead, plan ahead, and be prepared. And if it helps, write it down, “Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance.”

It ultimately lands on you. Are you prepared for today? How about tomorrow?

-Coach Missy