Professional football players in the NFL are known for their intense training routines, but many fans might be surprised to learn that these athletes often step out of the gym to take their workouts to nature. Incorporating outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and trail running into their fitness regimes has multiple benefits for these players, both physically and mentally.
1. Nature as a Training Ground
The varied terrains encountered during hiking or trail running force the body to adapt continuously. This unpredictability mimics the sudden shifts and rapid changes of direction encountered on the football field. NFL players like to take advantage of this natural training ground to build agility, strengthen stabilizing muscles, and improve reaction times.
2. Elevation Gains
Embed from Getty ImagesHiking up mountainous terrains at high altitudes provides an additional advantage. The reduced oxygen levels at higher altitudes make the heart and lungs work harder, improving cardiovascular endurance. Several NFL players use altitude masks or simply take their training to the mountains to mimic these conditions and enhance their lung capacity and stamina.
3. Mental Toughness and Relaxation
Beyond the physical, the solitude and beauty of nature offer a mental respite from the rigorous demands of professional sports. Camping, in particular, allows players to disconnect, promoting better sleep and reducing stress. This combination of physical exertion and mental relaxation is an essential aspect of recovery.
4. Full-body Workouts with Nature
Outdoor activities, especially when combined with traditional camping chores, work for various muscle groups. Think about the act of setting up a tent, gathering firewood, or even fishing. These activities can serve as functional fitness exercises, aiding in muscle coordination and overall strength.
5. Essential Gear for Outdoor Training
Embed from Getty ImagesEnsuring that they have the right equipment is crucial for these athletes. From moisture-wicking clothing that prevents overheating to lightweight, insulating gear for those chilly mountain evenings, the right gear can make a difference. Products like the Zonli outdoor electric blanket are favorites among these pros. Given their portable and efficient design, such products ensure that the athletes stay warm during their outdoor escapades, aiding in muscle recovery.
6. Nutrition in the Wild
Diet is an essential component of any athlete’s regime, and this doesn’t change when they’re in the wild. Players pack nutrient-dense foods that fuel their workouts. Think high-protein snacks, complex carbs, and plenty of hydration. Natural water sources are often used, but with the aid of portable water purifiers to ensure safety.
7. Shared Camaraderie
Many NFL players engage in these outdoor activities in groups, turning them into team-building exercises. There’s something about the shared experience of a challenging hike or setting up a campsite that fosters deeper connections and camaraderie among teammates.
8. Building Endurance and Stamina
Embed from Getty ImagesHiking long distances, especially when carrying a backpack, is a great way to build stamina. NFL players often find these extended physical challenges helpful for enhancing endurance, making them better equipped for the long haul of a game. Prolonged exposure to such challenges also trains the body to become more efficient in utilizing energy.
9. Cross-Training Benefits
Cross-training, or engaging in different forms of exercise, reduces the risk of injury by ensuring that no single group of muscles is overused. Outdoor activities provide the ideal platform for cross-training. For example, rock climbing can help enhance grip strength and upper body power, while trail running focuses on agility and lower body strength.
10. Improving Balance and Coordination
Nature trails aren’t always smooth. They can be filled with obstacles like rocks, roots, and uneven surfaces. Navigating through these requires excellent balance and coordination, skills crucial for NFL players during gameplay. Over time, these outdoor training sessions can significantly improve a player’s balance, making them more adept on the football field.
11. Embracing the Elements
Embed from Getty ImagesTraining outdoors means that players are exposed to a range of weather conditions. Whether it’s the biting cold, a sudden downpour, or the scorching sun, athletes learn to adapt and push through these challenges. This not only hardens them physically but also strengthens their mental fortitude, making them better equipped to handle the pressures of a high-stakes game.
12. Gear Recommendations from the Pros
Many NFL players, having spent considerable time outdoors, have their list of must-have items for these excursions. Beyond the aforementioned Zonli electric blanket, other essentials include moisture-wicking base layers, lightweight rain jackets, portable cookware, and durable hiking boots. Additionally, players also swear by GPS devices and survival kits, ensuring they’re always prepared, even in the most unexpected situations.
13. The Growing Trend
As more players share their outdoor experiences and the evident benefits they reap from them, it’s becoming a growing trend in the NFL community. From rookies to seasoned pros, many are turning to nature not just for its training advantages, but also for the sheer joy and peace it offers. They often encourage fans and fellow athletes to step out and experience nature, making it a holistic approach to well-being.
In the world of professional sports, where every advantage counts, it’s intriguing to witness how the vastness of the outdoors and its myriad challenges are becoming an integral part of training regimens. Whether it’s the fresh air, the panoramic views, or the sheer challenge of it all, there’s no denying that nature has become an MVP in the training routines of many NFL players.
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