Playing a sport and excelling in it are two different things. People play sports to lead an active lifestyle, but some people play sports to excel in it and make a career out of it. Those who strive to go the distance as a sportsperson need to be disciplined and adapt to different techniques early in their career to reap benefits.
Today, in this post, we will discuss five exercises for improving stamina and endurance in sports. So, without wasting any further time, let’s get going with the post.
Interval Training
The first training on this list is the Interval training. Interval training is rated as one of the best exercises to improve cardiovascular efficiency and aerobic capacity. A budding athlete should give this training a try by alternating between high and low-intensity workouts.
How to Perform:
Sprint for at least 30 seconds.
Walk or slowly jog for 1 or 2 minutes.
Repeat this cycle for 8 to 10 times.
Benefits: Performing Interval training with precision mimics game scenarios that require an abundance and burst of energy before recovery.
Plyometric exercises are really helpful in boosting stamina and endurance. These exercises require explosive power in the body to pump stamina via high-intensity and dynamic movements.
How to Perform:
Plyometric exercises include multiple exercises like- box jumps, jump squats, or burpees.
Perform at least 3 sets of 10-15 repetitions.
Rest for a minute or half between sets.
Benefits: Exercises like these are helpful in sports requiring explosive movements like- volleyball, boxing, Table Tennis, etc.
Running and Cycling for Long-Distance
Running and cycling are among the most common exercises performed by people nowadays. These are among the most effective exercises to boost aerobic endurance and also improve the functioning of the heart and lungs.
How to Perform:
Run or cycle at a constant pace starting from 30 to 60 minutes a day.
Gradually increase the pace, distance, and distance over time.
Benefits: Develops a robust base for sports involving prolonged movements and running like- Hockey, Football, Rugby, etc.
High-Intensity Circuit Training
High-intensity circuit training is a combination of strength and endurance training to boost overall fitness and stamina. Circuit training helps boosting overall endurance.
How to Perform:
High-intensity circuit training includes push-ups, pull-ups, kettlebell swings, and lunges in succession.
Give 40 seconds to each exercise with a 20-second rest in between.
3-4 rounds are necessary.
Benefits: Boost the whole body, along with increasing stamina and muscle endurance. Doing these exercises always heats up the body for better performance.
Swimming
Swimming is another common exercise or therapy to effectively build cardiovascular fitness and flexibility. Swimming is a whole-body workout that benefits joints, muscles, and boosts endurance.
How to Perform:
Swimming can be done in laps. Try 2-3 laps at once.
Another way of swimming is to swim continuously for 20-30 minutes.
Try different strokes while swimming like- breaststroke, freestyle, and backstroke for improving various muscle groups.
Benefits: One of the major benefits of swimming is that it helps in improving lung capacity and endurance, especially in high-cardio and water-related sports like diving, water polo, etc.
The Indian sports ecosystem has changed significantly in the last two few years. From being predominantly centered around cricket, to one that is now increasingly embracing other sporting disciplines such as Football, Badminton and Lawn Tennis, sports ecosystem has certainly is changing for good. Believe it or not, this is also down to cricket, which has helped brought more professionalism to other sports. In addition, government programs, private investments, increased media viewership and grassroots programs are some of the factors that also affect the sports ecosystem. Here we try to understand how the Indian Sports Ecosystem works and how to creates opportunities for aspiring Indian athletes.
Structure of Indian Sports Ecosystem
Indian sports ecosystem consists of government, sports federations, schools and private sectors, sponsors, and academies and the athletes themselves.
Government: The biggest protagonist in the Indian sports ecosystem is the Indian government. They hold the key for the development of sports. It’s no secret that sports other cricket needs support from government bodies and all the help in order to improve sporting development framework. Government has launched initiatives such as Khelo India and Fit India Movement which focus on grassroots development, improving infrastructure, and athlete support. The Sports Authority of India (SAI) has support coaching, takes care of funding, and runs facilities for budding talents.
Sports Federations: The major national sports federations include the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), All India Football Federation (AIFF), and Hockey India, to name a few. Usually, these bodies operate under government regulations and handles operations such as organizing tournaments, scouting talents as well as providing funding to the athletes.
Private Sector: Private sector is also transforming the Indian sports ecosystem. In fact, big private entities such as Reliance, Tata, and JSW have gone a step further and have started working at the grassroot level, setting up academies with modern facilities. Private sector is also bringing massive investments in the sports ecosystem, helping leagues like IPL, PKL, ISL, and PBL to grow even further.
Schools and Colleges: Educational bodies such as schools and colleges are perhaps the backbone of sports ecosystem in any country. Big academies an clubs often look at the schools and colleges for the scout related programs. Inter-school and Inter-College tournaments nurture talent and helps aspiring athlete to be more competitive.
Grassroots Programs: Grassroots programs have been critical in identifying and nurturing talents at an early age. Programs such as Youth Sports by Reliance Foundation (RFYS) and Olympic Gold Quest (OGQ) bring the talents closer to opportunities.
Technology and Media: Digital platforms and sports dedicated tools are also part of the Indian Sports Ecosystem. Social media platforms not only bring athletes and opportunities closer but it’s an additional revenue source for athletes while increasing fan engagement.
There’s no dearth of opportunities for talented athletes due to rise of of social media, and government-backed sports programs.
Professional Leagues: IPL paved the way for professional sports leagues culture in India. Leagues such as ISL, PKL and PBL are giving budding Indian athletes a big platform in sports other than cricket.
Government Support: Through programs such as Khelo India, athletes can earn scholarships, funding, and get exposure to national and international competitions.
Sponsorships and Endorsements: With the rise of professional sports leagues, private companies are pumping money into the sports system. Many brands are sponsoring athletes across different sports, with Neeraj Chopra a prime example.
Private Academies: Many private academies like Prakash Padukone Badminton Academy, Bhaichung Bhutia Football Schools, etc., work to develop and train the young athletes.
Challenges within the Indian Sports Ecosystem
Limited Infrastructure: Most rural and semi-urban territories still do not possess adequate facilities.
Imbalanced Attention: Cricket has got such a huge attention and resources, that most other sports had to struggle for even little visibility and support.
No Professional Advice: Athletes often do not get to avail quality coaching and, sports science, and career advice.
Financial Barrier: Costs of training, travel, and equipment deter talented athletes, particularly from economically weaker families.
How Athletes Can Get The Most Out Of the Indian Sports Ecosystem
To get the most out of the Indian sports ecosystem, athletes should keep a strategic view:
Take advantage of the grassroot programs: Athletes should always take part in grassroots programs and interschool intra-college tournaments.
Leverage Social Media: Strong online presence through social media such as Instagram and YouTube can help athletes in getting sponsorships and facilitate outreach.
Camps and Trials: Opportunities and few and far between. Athletes should keep a tab on open trials, along with training camps and state/national-level tournaments.
Awareness: Government schemes as well as providing beneficial scholarships and private programs should be closely monitored by the athletes with an effort not to miss out on good opportunities.
Conclusion
Infrastructure, government policies, and private sector involvement have gone a long way toward creating a very promising picture for aspiring athletes in India. But the Indian sports ecosystem is not straightforward. Funding doesn’t often reach the deserved athlete, while favorism at the grassroot level can’t be ruled out either. Till the system becomes robust, athletes must understand how to works and how to get the most out of the available resources and opportunities.
For Indian aspiring athletes, tomorrow is always bright. Accept the opportunities, overcome the challenges and stay true to their passion for sports.
Every child’s sports journey begins with a dream. When kids are old enough to imagine and perceive things, this is when the old adage “Coming events cast their shadows long before” comes to the fore. This is the stage when parents should be extremely observant of their children’s decisions, what they like to do, and what comes naturally to them. Like Lionel Messi, football came naturally to him. He became a world-beater and achieved everything in football because his parents supported him in his sports journey.
For children to achieve their dreams, they need unwavering support from their parents. This may involve guidance, emotional backing, and creating a balanced environment that encourages growth both on and off the field. Here’s how parents can actively support their child’s sports journey.
1. Understand Their Passion
Children tend to get more into sports once they grow up by natural talent, listening to someone who really inspires him/her, or being secretary/mentor. And as a good parent, it is important to perceive and support their passion while talking to them and listening to them. It opens up the door for their interests. Parents should always be judgment free. Allowing young kids to switch sports or take a break also fosters trust and encouragement.
2. Teach Them To Embrace Wins and Defeats as Learning Curve
Usually children face ups and downs in studies and sports field. So, there would be moments when the child is celebrating the victories, and in other moments, there would be lessons learned from defeats. It’s important for parents to teach your child to seize those occasions as learning experiences, embrace effort, discipline, and guide them to look at the bigger picture, rather than letting them lost in those moments of wins and defeats. Instill that there is a stepping stone to success with failure and thus build resilience and a growth mindset for them.
3. Provide Emotional Support
Parents should become an emotional anchor to their children. They should be the first people whom the kid look up to share their emotions and whatever they are feeling in particular moments. Celebrate every little victory; from the tiniest they can achieve to the biggest, or when an event doesn’t go well, let them be able to cry or shed a few tears and be there for them. Their confidence and motivation would much improve by having you with them to comfort them.
4. Inculcate Healthy Food Habits
There’s no point in pursuing sport if the diet goes unregulated. The balanced diet, adequate refreshment, and good night’s sleep are essential, and critical in a kid’s sports journey. Sports is all about maintaining a healthy lifestyle and inculcating good habits. Parents should always keep a tab on their children’s food habits. Regular check-ups with a sports physician would also help to avoid injuries. Mental fatigue and anxiety should also be watched for.
5. Maintain Healthy balance between Sports and Academics
Maintaining a balance between sports and academics can be tiresome for children, especially when a lot of time is consumed in travel. This is when parents can play a vital role in teaching their kids about maintaining a timetable and discipline. Watching TV or playing video games can help a child in relaxing and taking some pressure off their mind, but Parents have to make sure that their children are not spending too much time on these activities.
6. Teach Them Responsibility
Yes, Parents should guide their children but it is also important for your child to learn to shoulder certain responsibilities. Teach them how hard work, discipline, and accountability come before success in any field. Children should be taught about creating their own timetable, forming their own eating habits and how to keep balance between sports and education. This not only prepares them to meet the rigors of the sport but teaches them life skills as well.
7. Be Involved, But Draw A Line
It’s not an exaggeration, but sometimes parents can also be the biggest enemy of their child. Sometimes they become over-permissive or too critical of their choices. Parents should always remember that their children go through a lot of hormonal changes, and this is the phase when children experience mood swings. Too much micromanagement can lead to stress and resentment towards parents. So, draw a line and let your child grow. More importantly, let them make decisions so that they learn about responsibility.
8. Be a Role Model
Fathers and mother are the greatest role models for children. Often child grasp everything from their parents – how they behave in public, how they react to hurdles and setbacks and how they treat other people. So, who them the virtues of being patient and the trueness of hard work. Be humble during your good times and remain calm during storm. This is the best sportsmanship you can teach your kids. Remember, everything starts from home. Be the best role model for your kids.
9. Create good surroundings
Build a Support Network Surround your child with a positive network of coaches, teammates, and mentors who inspire and guide them. Attend their games, connect with other sports parents, and share experiences to create a strong community of support. Your child would be greatly influenced by your network.
Father helping boy with knee trauma after playing basketball. Sports Injury.
10. Be Patient In Your Child’s Sports Journey
Sports is not a 100-meter sprint. It’s a marathon that requires steady walks and occasional sprints. This is a journey where there will be doubts and would certainly come a stage when success look a far-fetched idea. This is when parents should be ready to make sacrifices, and be prepared to take hard choices where they must compromise and adapt while also keeping in sight the one goal – your child’s success.
Conclusion
Supporting a child’s in his sports journey means much more than enrolling them in a good sports academy or cheering them from the stands. Always keep in mind that your child would be spending most of his time with you, that means, you are the guide, motivator, and emotional support through each step of his life’s journey. Every little support you give during his development’s phase can set foundations that could really make a difference tomorrow. So, be their biggest fan, strongest advocate, and most trusted mentor, and watch them soar both on and off the field.
Warming up before a workout or performance is not just essential but a game-changer. It ensures injury prevention and peak performance. Whether you’re about to play sports, strength train, or engage in any physical activity, it is a must to limber up with a full-body warm-up regimen.
We have put together an easy 10-minute warm-up routine so that you keep injuries at bay and prime your muscles for maximum performance. Let’s first get to understand the need to warm up.
Why do you need a Warm-Up Routine?
Our muscles and joints are also at rest when we are physically inactive during rest, sleep, or commute. With warm-up, we activate muscles and joints, triggering the central nervous system to turn on. If we don’t get straight to intense workouts, we may strain muscles which can lead to injuries. Besides, warming up improves blood circulation and flexibility.
Take these steps to get your body ready for any workout. It is advised to perform each of the below-mentioned exercises for up to 1 minute in the same sequence.
1. Arm Circles
Extend your arms out to the sides.
Make small, controlled circles.
Increase the circle size gradually.
This helps loosen your shoulder joints and increase blood flow.
2. Hip Circles
Place your hands on your hips and rotate them in a wide circle, like a hula hoop.
Perform clockwise for the first 30 seconds.
Perform counterclockwise rotations for the next 30 seconds.
This will help open up your hip joints
This exercise is crucial before running activities.
3. Leg Swings
Hold onto a wall.
Swing one leg forward and backward for 15 seconds
Sing the leg side to side thereafter for 15 seconds.
Now, do the same with the other leg.
It is great to activate your hip muscles and improve mobility.
There’s a 90/10 rule dominating the lifestyle pattern among youth. As per this trend, 90% diet should be clean, with only healthy food or drink entering the body, while 10% can be for sensual pleasures, like pizza or pasta. This kind of food habit can work wonders for normal people, but for someone who wants to maintain a balanced lifestyle. But for athletes, aiming to reach the very top level, nothing short of peak will do for them. They have to be almost flawless in choosing the food they eat, for it has a direct impact on their performance on the field. A curated diet helps athletes in performing rigorous physical activity and also aids in repairing tissues. Here’s a guide for athletes on how to maintain a balanced diet.
Maintaining Consistency Is The Key
Yes, eating healthy food is critical in reaching the maximum fitness, but equally important is the timing of the food and the consistency. Your body eventually acclimatize itself for every habit, be it waking up at a specific time in the morning and having the first meal of the day. It’s all about following a fixed routine. That’s the key for maintaining a peak lifestyle for an athlete. From having a pre-workout meal to consuming a combination of protein and carbs to repair muscles, athletes must maintain consistency if they are to reach optimum health.
Personalizing The Diet
Every athlete’s body is different and unique. Their body demands different composition of macronutrients and micronutrients. For example, if a certain amount of protein or carbohydrates works wonder for one athlete, the same composition could harm another athlete. Like Novak Djokovic, whose body was sensitive to gluten, and so, he had to exclude it from his diet plan. That’s why, if an athlete wants to dominate in his field, he has to know his body, and what it demands. The next step is to personalize the diet plan according to the demand of the body.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping Meals: The most common mistake an athlete can make is to skip meals. This is very common among athletes who live alone and have to prepare their own food. Skipping meals can leads to low energy levels and poor recovery, which can result to poor performance in the match. So it’s recommended that athletes should never skip meals in order to maintain peak fitness level.
Junk Food: Often termed as “Guilty Pleasures”, eating junk food is the biggest harm an athlete can do to his body. Indulging in bad habits can lead to poor performance, poor recovery post work-out and eventually, can worsen the overall health of the athlete.
Understanding the Basics of a Balanced Diet
But what is a balanced diet?
A balanced diet is the right proportions of macronutrients and micronutrients. Macronutrients mainly consists of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, while micronutrients are mostly vitamins, minerals, and hydration. There’s no hard and fast rule regarding the consumption of these nutrients, but for athletes, the composition of these nutrients holds the key to unlock their peak fitness level.
How much macronutrients should be included in an athlete’s diet?
1. Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy for athletes. During physical activities, the body relies on energy which is stored as glucose. Consuming sufficient carbohydrates allows athletes to remain full of energy during sports activities
Sources: Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, and starchy foods like sweet potatoes.
Recommendation: 55-60% of an athlete’s daily calorie intake should come from carbs.
2. Proteins: Proteins are critical for muscle repair and growth. They also play a role in hormonal balance and maintaining immunity. Of course, athletes need more protein than the average people due to their sports related activities.
Recommendation: Protein intake should range from 1.2 to 2.0 grams, per kilogram of body weight, also depending on sports activity level.
3. Fats: Fats are essential for endurance related activities. Healthy fats also aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Sources: Avocado, nuts, seeds, olive oil, fatty fish, and dairy.
Recommendation: Fats should make up about 20-35% of daily calorie intake.
How much micronutrients should be included in an athlete’s diet?
Vitamins and minerals: They vital nutrients are often overlooked but holds the key for an athlete’s overall health. Iron are essential for oxygen transport in the blood. Unlike calories, Vitamins and minerals are measured in terms of Adequate Intake, which again varies based on gender, age and activity.
Sources: Spinach, red meat, fortified cereals, and beans.
Recommendations: As mentioned, intake depends on various factors. Vitamin C: 75-90 mg/day (may be higher for intense training). Vitamin D: 600-800 IU/day, depending on sun exposure. Vitamins B: B12: 2.4 mcg/day)
Iron: These nutrients are essential for transportation of Oxygen in the blood. Men: 8-11 mg/day. Women (18-50 years): 18 mg/day (due to menstruation). Athletes: Athletes, especially females, may require more due to increased demand.
Calcium and Vitamins D: These nutrients support bone health and prevent injuries.
Sources: Dairy, fortified plant-based milks, and sunlight for Vitamin D.
Electrolytes: Sodium, potassium, and magnesium are crucial for maintaining hydration and muscle function. Sources: Bananas, coconut water, and leafy greens.
Hydration is just as critical as quality food. Lack of hydration can lead to fatigue, decreased performance, and even heat-related illnesses. Here’s how an athlete can maintain his hydration level.
Pre-Workout: Drink 400-600 ml of water two hours before exercising.
During Workout: Sip water every 15-20 minutes, and consider sports drinks for prolonged activities lasting over an hour to replenish electrolytes.
Post-Workout: Rehydrate with water and electrolyte-rich drinks to restore fluid balance.
Conclusion
Maintaining peak health is a continuous process. There can be occasional cheat days but discipline is the key, whether it’s going to the bed or waking up in the morning. Tom Brady, the greatest NFL player of all time, played at his peak even when going into his 40s, because he did what most athletes fail to do, and that is to maintain disciplined in everything. Same can be said about LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Cristiano Ronaldo and Novak Djokovic, to name a few. All these athletes are in lates 30s, and yet, they are showing no signs of slowing down.
The rule of the thumb is that an athlete should maintain a healthy lifestyle.
The Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-24 season has been nothing short of entertainment thus far. At mid-season, Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Bengaluru FC lead the standings with 17 points each.
To the surprise of many, new teams NorthEast United FC and Punjab FC are among others who have put in some memorable performances and are challenging the table toppers.
We are in for a treat in the second half of the league season as there remains a fierce battle to seal semi-final and playoff spots.
At the end of the league, the top two teams will qualify for the semi-finals while those finishing between 3rd and 6th will vie for the other two semi-finalists spots in playoffs.
How each ISL team has fared so far?
Bengaluru FC: The Blues are one of the title contenders at this juncture. Sunil Chhetri is delivering once again.
Punjab FC: The Shers have been a revelation with local talents Leon Augustine and Nihal Sudeesh putting on impressive performances.
Jamshedpur FC: A promising ISL season so far with incredible resilience and comebacks.
Mohun Bagan Super Giant: Dimitri Petratos has hit form but there is a concern about consistency.
FC Goa: The top line looks good but the defense needs to do better to get results consistently.
NorthEast United FC: Alaeddine Ajaraie has been a star but the defense is struggling.
Kerala Blasters FC: Not at their best but Noah Sadaoui’s form gives them a glimmer of hope.
Chennaiyin FC: Lacking creativity and as a result, there is a goal drought. Farukh Choudhary has hit form of late.
Odisha FC: Hugo Boumous and Diego Mauricio have been brilliant. The defense has been poor.
Mohammedan SC: Barring Alexis Gomez, the unit has not put in promising performances.
Mumbai City FC: The heavyweights have struggled and may find their feet if they are able to overcome defensive struggles.
Hyderabad FC: A couple of wins recently but other than that there were lackluster performances.
East Bengal FC: Winless so far! They need to regroup and do better at both ends of the pitch.
Indian Football is going places year after year, with better and better quality of football with each passing season. Sure the remainder of the Indian Super League 2024-25 will keep fans on the edge of their seats. Stay tuned for the most thrilling ISL season ever!
The glaring inequalities between women’s and men’s sports reflect the state of India’s sports landscape. For ages, men have been typically seen as torchbearers of sports, while women have been carrying an image of someone who should stay behind doors, and do household chores. Forget about financial disparity, the ratio of men playing sports to women is still heavily in favor of men.
But times are changing fast, India is on a global stage, developing fast, and Indian women athletes are scaling to great heights, with opportunities knocking at their door. Still, their journeys are replete with tales of challenges, not synonymous with men, they have to overcome. Here we highlight challenges and opportunities for Women in Indian Sports.
Challenges Faced by Women in Indian Sports
1. Expectations and Biasness: We don’t need movies to tell us the challenges women face in this country. Especially in sports, which is, to a great extent, seen as a male-only career. Girls are often not encouraged to participate in sports because the society emphasizes getting married and taking care of family rather than considering athletic goals. A lack of support from families, especially in rural areas, ends a promising career.
2. Unavailability of Essential Resources: The stark difference between men and female sports ecosystem in India is the lack of dedicated resources. There are not many training facilities in 2nd and lower tier cities in India that cater to women sports. The rural areas are the worst affected ones, where even simple amenities, such as proper grounds, equipment, and professional guidance, are lacking in abundance.
3. Financial Constraint: For most aspiring female athletes, money is the biggest issue. In a big family, when it comes to supporting the children in sport, boys, almost all the time, wins the battle at home. Then, there’s a matter of sponsorship in women’s sports. Women in Indian sports have to contend with a severe lack of sponsorship deals and endorsement compared to men’s sports.
4. Lack Of Media Coverage: How many times have we seen an Indian woman football player doing an advertisement on TV? Even women cricketers face a lot of discrimination compared to the male counterparts who are held as gods. This is down to media creating perceptions that it’s a male dominated society where role models can only be men. The less media provides exposure to a particular sport, the more stereotypes are encouraged, and ultimately, opportunities for sponsorships decline.
5. Safety Issues: The biggest deterrent for parents in India when it comes to supporting girls in sports is the safety issue. It’s a very sensitive topic, which can’t be ignored at all. Even in the big metro cities female players face a lot of security issues, especially when they have to travel and stay away from home while training. Harassment and abuse cases are often covered up, thus discouraging many parents from allowing their girls to pick sport as a career. There is also the lack of an effective system in solving such concerns.
Despite all the challenges and negative points we highlighted, the Indian sports landscape is transforming. Here is a list of positive aspects of the increasing opportunities for women in Indian sports.
1. Rising Role Models: In recent times, we have seen a whole lot of Indian women athletes, such as PV Sindhu, Mary Kom, Mithali Raj, Smriti Mandhana, among others have changed the narrative around women sports in India. Their success at the international stage has proved that gender is no barrier to success. Their stories inspire numerous young girls and make them dream big and pursue sports as a viable career.
2. Government Initiatives: Indian government is also playing a big role in helping women sports. They have launched many initiatives in the country to support women’s sports. Programs like Khelo India and Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao specifically aim to increase the participation of female players. Even in rural SAI centers, arrangements are being improved for women athletes to get quality facilities.
3. Media and Social Media Impact: The rise of social media platforms have also made it easier for female athletes to showcase their talents. It’s easy for female athletes now to get their voice heard and connect with audiences directly. Through social media, women athletes can build their personal brands and share their journeys, ultimately attracting sponsors.
4. Women’s Professional Leagues: The rise of Indian Premier League (IPL) changed the Indian sports landscape forever. The immense success of IPL showed that professional leagues is the way forward. After IPL, Indian Super Leagues (ISL) and Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) were also launched and both teams are hugely successful. Women’s professional leagues are also increasing in numbers. We have Women’s IPL, and Women’s Football League and there are news that Premier Badminton League is likely to be revived in the near future.
5. Education and Awareness: With the awareness of the benefits that come with playing sports – people are encouraging more female to participate and pick sports as a career. Educational institutions are also playing a huge role by offering scholarships and better facilities to female athletes.
The journey for women in Indian sports is one of resilience and determination, navigating challenges while seizing opportunities. With a growing number of role models earning big sponsorship deals, and new policies supporting women helping change social narrative around women in Indian sports, the future holds immense promise.
The biggest change that India need to see should come at the rural level. Parents should be educated that sports is another career opportunity like choosing an MBA degree. Also, there should be a more robust system when it comes to safety measures for women.
The rise of women in Indian sports is not just a win for gender equality—it’s a testament to the unyielding spirit of those who dare to dream beyond limitations.
Home is the first school and the parents are the first teachers, this old adage holds true for every children. What children experience at home and the atmosphere they are brought up, eventually transform into their character and learning. Youth sports academies are no different. They have the power to mold the career of a young and aspiring athlete in both a positive and a negative way. But running a youth football academy in India isn’t without challenges. Here are the top five challenges in youth sports academies in India.
Everything revolves around money these days. There are no free lunches. Be it school or top companies, earning money is the main objective. This holds true for the youth sports academies as well. They are also in this field to earn money and keep their financial resources afloat. But earning money from running a youth sports academy in India is a big challenge.
Maintaining high-quality facilities, hiring experienced coaches, and providing sports equipment require substantial financial resources. To provide these resources to the athletes, academies need money and that money comes from parents. Talented athletes from low-income families often can’t afford to access these academies as a result.
Lack of sponsorship and government funding is also one of the reasons why youth sports academies in India fail at the grassroot level.
Is there a solution?
Local government should start supporting the academies with the finances.
Academies can reach out to local businesses or corporations for sponsorships and partnerships.
Organizing community fundraising events to help support talented but underprivileged athletes.
2. Challenge for Youth Sports Academies: Inconsistent Coaching Quality
Being someone who has played football in Delhi League, I can vouch for the quality of the coaches at the grassroot level. First point of consideration for academies during the hiring process is often the cost of hiring a coach. They often go with the cheapest one. Some academies even end up hiring a coach without any coaching certificate and some rely on volunteers who may not possess the technical knowledge to guide young athletes.
Like parents at home, coaches play a vital role in shaping the future of a young athlete. If the kids play under the command of a coach who lack the knowledge of coaching, there are high chances that the young kids end up an average player at best.
Is there a solution?
Academies should hire only certified coaches.
There should be an exam for coaches to ensure they are updated with the latest techniques and methods.
Academies should implement a feedback system where athletes and parents can evaluate coaching quality.
3. Challenge for Youth Sports Academies: Finding a balance between Sports & Education
For young athletes in India, there eventually comes a point when they have to choose between academics and sports, and often it’s the former that wins. Sports demand a consistent and significant time commitment from athletes, leaving little room for other activities. Most parents in India are also employed, and they don’t have the time to micromanage their kids with activities outside school. Additionally, societal pressure to prioritize academics over sports can discourage young athletes from pursuing their dreams, leading to athletes leaving the sports academies.
Is there a solution?
Like in Europe, Academies in Indian should provide educational support to young athletes.
Parents should not force their children to choose between academic and sports.
There should be a clear communication between parents, schools, and coaches.
4. Challenge for Youth Sports Academies: No Long-Term Development Pathways
The main issue with the most academies in India is the fact that they work as an independent academies. It’s a totally different setup in Europe, where academies work as a budding ground for bigger clubs. And even if academies are independent, they have tie ups with clubs.
In India, young athletes eventually end up overgrowing the academies. Young children often play in tournaments that normally doesn’t lead to any where. There is no clear pathway for athletes to progress from the academy to professional levels. This lack of direction can demotivate young players and even their parents. As a result, most athletes end up leaving the sport entirely.
Is there a solution?
Parents must choose only those academies that can set up trials with the bigger clubs.
Academies should have a clear pathway for the young kids.
Academies should have curated sports programs for every children.
5. Challenge for Youth Sports Academies: Less Focus on Mental Health
Mental health is still a sensitive topic in India. In fact, many parents and even the teachers overlook this subject entirely. But it’s no secret that young athletes feel pressure. This can lead to stress, anxiety, and even depression. We should understand that kids who opt for sports feel pressure from academics as well as from their coaches. This can result in talented athletes to lose interest in the sport altogether.
Is there a solution?
Academies must incorporate mental health professionals into the academy.
Teaching mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and stress management as part of the training curriculum
Young athletes must be encouraged to take regular breaks and emphasize the importance of enjoyment in sports.
Conclusion
Youth sports academies have the potential to shape the future of sports in India. But to achieve that, academies need to follow a clear pathway. Achieving financial sustainability is the biggest motivating factor but improving coaching standards, creating a balance between education and sports as well as prioritizing mental health, academies can play their part in improving the grassroot set up in India. Solving these challenges can pave the way for a brighter future for sports in India.
Communication is the backbone of success. For a company to become a successful organization, there has to be a clear and seamless communication from the top level to the managers and to the employees. Sports is no different. Whether it’s during a practice session or competitive game, clear communication can make a big difference. But communication gaps remain a challenge in India, especially when the coach is a foreigner. Fortunately, technology is stepping in to bridge these gaps, transforming how sports teams operate.
Why Communication in Sports is Important?
Communication in sports isn’t limited to imparting instructions on the field. It also extends to scheduling practice sessions, discussing strategies and sharing feedback about the performance or it could be about other subjects such as behavior on the field and team unity.
A small misunderstanding – for example, when a player perceives the criticism negatively – can knock the morale of the player and disrupt the rhythm of the team.
Furthermore, as the sports is becoming a global event, with players from different background in the same team, like in the ISL and IPL, speaking different languages, lack of seamless communication can result in confusion, frustration, and eventual lack of cohesion and coordination in the team. That is where technology becomes a game-changer.
How Technology Can Solve Communication Gaps In Sports Teams
Real-Time Messaging and Collaboration Tools
Imagine if the coach has suggestions to give to a player but has to wait for the team meetings. There’s a strong possibility that the real message may be lost. That problem can be solved using instant messaging tools such as WhatsApp, Microsoft Teams, or dedicated sports apps. They can share real-time updates, strategies, or provide feedback immediately after the game or a practice session. An example would be as follows: the coach would record a video snippet of the game, illustrating the players about their weakness and mistakes in a game.
Language Translation Tools
There is a lot of players from the rural background of India playing in ISL. Most of the coaches are from countries such as Spain. This will be a huge issue for the coach to communicate and pass through his message and recommendation that he has for that player. But the problem can be solved by technology. With the assistance of translation tools like Google Translate or specialized Apps, through the help of AI, all instructions and strategies can reach every player from the coach.
Wearable Technology for Non-Verbal Communication
Tools such as GPS trackers can help coaches track physical metrics. A fitness coach can also keep a track if a player is overexerted during a game. These metrics can help coaches in taking decisions such as taking the player off, substituting them, which can help prevent potential injuries.
Improving performance through Virtual Training Tools
There are many video tools available that can help detailed breakdowns of games, allowing coaches to impart specific instructions to players. Virtual reality (VR) tools can also help players in improving their game. With VR, players can experience game scenarios and understand their roles without being physically present on the field.
Advantage of using technology: Benefits Beyond Communication
Although technology mainly addresses communication gaps, it also brings other significant benefits:
Increased Accountability: When schedules, feedback, and instructions are shared transparently, everyone is held accountable.
Enhanced Morale: Clear communication reduces frustration and fosters a sense of unity.
Improved Efficiency: With less time wasted on clarifying misunderstandings, teams can focus on training and performance.
Challenges of Using Technology
Despite the advantage, using technology comes with a challenge.
Cost: Using technology tools and platforms can be expensive, dissuading smaller teams from using them.
Learning Curve: Not every athlete is tech-savvy. They may need time and training to adapt.
Over-Reliance: Too much dependency on technology can hamper personal interactions between players.
Conclusion
Technology has ensured that communication in sports teams is something that can be trusted with timely updates. The more communication happens in real-time, there are more more chances of players absorbing the core of the message. This also helps strengthen the team cohesion, and keep everyone on the same page.
With technological innovation advancing in the sports world, it is no longer a choice but a necessity to make them a part of the team set up. Using these innovations will eventually allow teams to ensure that their players are not just connected but on track for great performance. After all, good communication off the field leads to good success on it.
India is a country teeming with athletic potential. From cricket and football to badminton, hockey and Lawn Tennis, the country has produced remarkable talents who have made India proud on the global stage.
However, as much as India have the talent, there’s isn’t a ecosystem to regularly convert the potential into the top-class athletes. An area where India can make a huge change is by creating a proper system for the player development.
This involves a more holistic approach that goes beyond finding the gifted individuals and focuses on the nurturing of their physical, mental, and tactical capabilities. Here’s why teams in India need to create a holistic system for the player development to take Indian sports to new heights.
The Importance of a Structured and Clear Development Pathway
A. Clear Pathway: One of the reason why India is lagging so behind other nations in sports is the lack of structured and clear pathways for players.
Let’s be honest, most aspiring athletes, and even their parents, don’t have clear knowledge about how their precious child can get to the top of the sports, let’s say football. Teams should make it mandatory to counsel parents about the roadmap of the sports, and how enrolling the kid in their academy can help their kid.
B. Hiring Better Coaches At Grassroot Level: Most of the clubs and academies at the grassroot level often end up hiring young coaches who don’t have the necessary and required experience of coaching.
Often this goes unnoticed as parents don’t bother about checking the experience of the coaches. But we know why Arjuna became “The Arjuna” because he was coached by the Great Dronacharya. A great coach can help unlock the great potential in the kid.
C. Better Scouting System: USA and Europe dominate the sports because they have a well-defined systems that identify talent and then provide for step-by-step development.
For example, football clubs in Europe follow systematic approaches, which focuses on young kids’ skills in a particular sport, his fitness, and how he responds to his coach’s instruction in a match.
For India to become a true giant in the world sport, there has to be a better scouting system and a network of coaches that can identify the talent at a very young age.
D. Seamless Transition: India must a kind of model that ensures that the talented players have a seamless transition from grassroots to professional levels. Clubs and academies should encourage programs that equate sports with education, provide mentorship and exposure to competitive environments.
Focus On Physical Development
A. Access To Better Facilities: Playing the sport at an early age may be the start of a player’s journey, but physical development is the bedrock for sustaining success.
Most Indians, more so the low-tier city players, do not have access to even the most basic facilities, let alone the scientific training methods that are prevalent in Europe’s modern and advanced sports system.
If academies in India can ensure to bring an end to this perpetuating situation and offer better practicing conditions for the budding athletes, then we may witness the continued production of good players in India.
B. Improving Physical conditioning: Young players should also be encouraged to build strength, endurance, and flexibility from early age. Methods to prevent injuries should be practiced since an early age. In addition, teams are better off crafting curated training plans specific to an individual player’s needs.
Focus On Mental Conditioning
A.Developing Resilience: At the very top level, there isn’t much difference between the players. But what separates the winners from the losers is the resilience, players’ never-give-up attitude even in the face of a defeat. Remember Liverpool’s unthinkable 4-0 win over Barcelona in the semifinal of the Champions League in 2019. Liverpool managed to overcome a huge deficit because their players showed more resilience and mental toughness in the 2nd leg.
Teams and coaches should put more focus on mental toughness. With right education, our players can perform better in high-pressure situations. For sure, this is the least exploited aspect of player development in India.
B. Teaching Kids To Accept Criticism: From accepting criticism to their failure, athletes face a series of psychological pressure in their career. Preparing the young athletes to accept failure and accept criticism in a positive way can help them navigate the tough phase in their career.
Mental conditioning should be a part of sports curriculum in even the lower level leagues. Hiring better sports psychologists can be helpful for the players to build confidence, focus, and resilience.
Grassroots Investment: The Need for Infrastructure
A. Basics of development: India needs better infrastructures at the grassroots level to provide young players with good facilities, coaching, and competitions. Most lower-tier cities in India don’t even have proper grounds for young kids to train and develop the skillset. Teams with bigger infrastructure and better purse should also start investing in the small cities and villages.
B. Encouraging Investment: Organizations, governments, and corporate entities can also provide solution by establishing training centers, scouting programs, and funding schemes for identifying young talent in the remoate areas of India.
The Bigger Picture: Building a Winning Culture
The whole thing Player development in India is not just about becoming better athletes but about creating a winning culture. The better the training, the more skilled, the more adaptable, and the more team-oriented the players become. It all start with the team and the culture the young athlete is introduced at an early age.
If teams start investing in better coaches and take other important aspects such as mental conditioning and physical development with seriousness, there’s a very strong chance of seeing an Indian playing for top European clubs like Real Madrid, Liverpool, or Barcelona. And imaging the sight of an Indian tennis player lifting the Grand Slam.
Conclusion
There’s no dearth of talent in India. But the talent without access to proper playing conditions is likely to end up an average player at best. True success lies in developing that talent with a holistic player development system. Teams and academies should leave no stone unturned in improving the on-field skills – be it physical, mental, and tactical aspects of play-investing in grassroots infrastructure.
Better coaches are required who can unlock India’s remarkable sporting potential. It’s time to act now. Bringing the right kind of focus to player development in India, the nation can go from being a nation of raw talent to one of sustained sporting excellence.
