How Crucial is Preseason Conditioning?

Preseason conditioning plays a vital role in preparing athletes for the demands of their sport. It not only boosts performance but also significantly reduces the risk of injury. Athletes who skip training in the weeks leading up to the season place unnecessary strain on their bodies, often leading to preventable injuries early in the season. In fact, many of these injuries stem from inadequate strength and conditioning before competition begins.

“I recommend that athletes begin strength and conditioning workouts at least six to eight weeks before the season starts,” says Dr. Jessica Zarndt, fellowship-trained primary care sports medicine doctor. “This approach helps athletes achieve peak performance while minimizing their risk of injury.”

To help your athletes perform at their best from day one, preseason workouts may include:

• Weight training
• Plyometric drills
• Jump training
• Balance exercises
• Stretching and flexibility work

Additionally, the youth injury prevention organization STOP Sports Injuries advises athletes to follow the “10 percent rule” during preseason training: avoid increasing weight, distance, or intensity by more than 10 percent per week. This gradual progression helps the body adapt safely and reduces the risk of overtraining.

Our sports medicine experts at Desert Orthopaedic Center can guide you in developing a safe and effective preseason strength and conditioning plan. Please call (702) 930-8234 or schedule an appointment online to help your athlete enter the season prepared, resilient, and ready to perform.