It may have started as a bit of fun or maybe a way to get back into shape. It may have been just an opportunity to hang out with a friend or partner. Whatever your reason for starting up that sport, you have reached a point where you feel you are actually getting quite good at it. So what is the next level?
You know you’ve fallen in love with your sport when you can’t get enough of it. Evenings, weekends, and even lunch hours are spent doing it or reading about it. If you have reached the point where you are making lifestyle changes to accommodate your new passion, then you are ready to change up a gear.
Whichever sport it is that you are into, you know you would love the opportunity to live and breathe it every day. While we all have to keep our jobs to pay the bills, it is still possible to take our beloved sports seriously without going pro. You’ve probably already started to eat better and take on additional workouts that support your sporting activity. You could also look into buying high-end equipment and sportswear to help give your performance an edge. For example, keen cyclists may buy custom bicycle jerseys, runners may choose made to measure footwear, and baseball players may want to check out Baseball Monkey’s selection of bats for an upgrade.
Buying good quality equipment is a step in the right direction toward becoming better at your chosen sport. You may also feel you could benefit from some like-minded company. Check your local newspapers and directories. You may find there is a club meeting near you. The internet is also helpful for finding Facebook groups all over the country who may be looking to speak with you about your passions. Great hints and tips can be found online from keen enthusiasts to professional trainers. There is also likely to be a magazine or two you could subscribe to that will provide you a wealth of information, as well as great ads for the best equipment.
At home, you may be looking to dedicate some garage or basement space to your new found passion. This is a great idea because it helps you focus your mind and attention to what you need to do to improve. It also lets the rest of the household know how serious you are about it. This may help you gain the necessary support from them. Your family should be able to give you the time and space you need to pursue your sport, and should also be able to get involved with you.
If you are at a point where you feel you may be able to become more serious about your sport, talk to a local professional team. You may be fortunate enough to have an Olympic team within an easy travelling distance. Often, they are more than happy to discuss how they approach the sport. After all, they were amateurs with other jobs too and may still be. If you are determined to reach a competitive level, the best thing you can do is speak to those who are already there.
