Why Warm-Ups Matter: Preparing the Mind and Body for Game Day
Recently, while watching my kids at a hockey tournament, something caught my attention. The coach called the team to start warm-ups, and while the athletes went through the motions, it quickly turned into a playful competition—who could finish the fastest, who could make it funnier. On the surface, it looked like typical youthful energy. But in that moment, something clicked: many young athletes treat warm-ups like filler time, not preparation.
It made me reflect on my own time in college baseball. I had a routine. It may have been more structured than others’, but it served a purpose—it got me locked in. Especially on those tough days when motivation was lagging, my warm-up wasn't just a physical necessity, it was a mental anchor.
More Than Stretching
Warming up isn’t just about loosening your muscles or getting the blood flowing (though that’s important, too). It’s the first step in switching from everyday mode to competition mode. It’s a reset. A chance to shake off distractions—school stress, nerves, noise—and begin focusing on the task ahead.
It’s a moment to:
- Visualize success
- Mentally rehearse scenarios
- Acknowledge areas of growth
- Commit to your role on the team that day
Mental Preparation Starts Early
For young athletes, these habits don’t form on their own. They’re taught. That’s why as coaches, parents, and mentors, we have a responsibility to guide kids through the full athlete experience—from warm-up, to performance, to recovery. That includes helping them understand why preparation matters.
Warm-ups are the first rep of the day—physically and mentally.
Let’s make sure they’re not taken lightly.
Takeaway:
Help your young athletes build pre-game routines that engage their body and their mind. A good warm-up sets the tone for a great performance.