Pre-Season Training Tips with Matt Rowell

Pre-season might technically start in November, but let’s be honest, for most of us it isn’t until we stumble out of our December-January holiday haze that we really get serious on the track.

While the Brayshaw brothers spent Christmas day doing 100-hundreds, the rest of us mere mortals were likely over-indulging. But don’t freak out. There’s still time to get in some kind of shape so you don’t blow up come round one.

To help you out, we thought we’d get some tips from a real pro, Gold Coast young gun and Sherrin Ambassador, Matt Rowell.

 

Here are his top five pre-season training tips:

 

DON’T TAKE SHORTCUTS

Pre-season is designed to get you prepared for the season, so ensure you are doing everything properly and to the best of your ability. You’re training with your mates, and you are all putting in the hard yards for the same result. We all want to win and be successful and that doesn’t happen without putting in the work.

 

DIET

A balanced diet is key. We usually have more free time in the pre-season, so making sure you are being diligent and accountable to your meal plan is worthwhile.

 

HAVE FUN

There might be a lot of grunt work, but don’t forget to always do it with a smile. Just enjoy being around your teammates and have fun! Pre-season is so important, not just fitness wise, but to also build the chemistry between new and existing teammates. You need to make sure everyone is across the game plan and tactics.

 

GET THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT

Having the right equipment is essential for any athlete. The No.1 item for pre-season training is a match day Sherrin of course! You can’t play footy without a nice leather Sherrin but I’m also a fan of the Sherrin Precision to help refine my kicking technique. A good pair of runners, and your trusty footy boots are also a must. If you’re looking to do some contact drills then a blocking pad will also come in handy before you tough things out in a practice match.

 

MIND GAMES

I try and keep on top of my game mentally at home. Whether that is studying the game on my own on how I can improve, or just escaping the realm of AFL and just chilling out always helps. Sometimes escaping and focusing on things that aren’t footy related helps me prepare better.