Being a student-athlete takes work - a lot of it. While there are some tough moments, the challenge is something to be enjoyed. If you genuinely love what you're doing, the daily routine of a student-athlete is actually quite fun. Here's how mine goes:
Unlike the student-athlete stereotype, my mornings are not insanely early. Even if it means losing a few hours at the beginning of the day, a sufficient night’s rest is a priority as a junior tennis player to recover and repair muscles from daily physical exertion. Some mornings I’m reminded of the previous day’s strenuous training as my body aches getting out of bed; a deep stretch session is first on the to-do list.
Although a less demanding lifestyle sometimes seems easier, it is my long-term goals that drive me forward. Reaching my potential, both academically and sports-wise, pushes me to work hard and give my best for another productive day.
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My Morning Routine
Breakfast time follows and is one of my favourite parts of the day. I do love buttered toast but am usually monitored by mum, as I have a habit of spreading it on just a bit too thickly. I’m also conscious of the importance of eating well, so I always back this up with something nutritious, fresh, and energy-packed. For me, porridge or granola with fruit, nuts, and honey is the ultimate wholesome start to the day.
First lessons of the day commence by 9am. As a Year 10 student with GCSEs approaching, most of my study time is spent revising and testing myself with flash cards, re-reading textbooks or completing practice papers. One of the greatest challenges of being a student-athlete is maintaining the right balance between schoolwork and tennis.
Managing time and energy between the two can be difficult and stressful at times, especially when exams and tournaments are simultaneously approaching. During the morning study sessions, staying focused can be particularly tough. With training literally straight after, it’s easy for your mind to wander to what you’ll be working on when you hit the courts.
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Practice starts mid-morning, which is a privilege as a junior player whose peers have no choice but to train very early before school. Training slightly later in the day gives both my body and mind an opportunity to properly wake up, so exercise is less physically harsh on my muscles. As a student-athlete, I find training sessions not only help me to work on my game but also offer a release for academic stress and tension. I enjoy using my mind to think and analyse tactically in a way that is different from reading through a textbook.
Training generally begins with a dynamic warm up, which reduces the risk of injury and prepares the body for more sudden and vigorous movement. If I'm training with a hitting partner then I'll normally practice open-hitting and point play to emulate a competitive tournament situation. If not, tailored drills will enable me to work on specifics which I've identified as needing improvement based on my recent matches.
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Back to the books
Having worked up an appetite, a nourishing lunch is fuel for the next few hours. Afternoon studies are probably the most testing part of the day - at this point, I am feeling quite physically and mentally fatigued. This is when student-athletes gain the discipline they are known for.
Our daily routines teach us resilience; ultimately, we build character and become stronger people because of it. In saying that, sweet pick-me-ups are never declined - a cup of hot cocoa or a few biscuits often lend a helping hand.
Late afternoons are the time I devote to my extra-curricular passions which include playing piano and participating in dance classes. I would always encourage student-athletes to be well-rounded and pursue outside interests. This will offer a more diverse skill-set and varied experiences and knowledge which will prove beneficial in the future.
Besides enjoying these activities, getting involved in other activities will also show that you are well-rounded, which is impressive on any college application. Finally, I personally find that participating often opens up new opportunities and teaches me life-lessons which are applicable to and compliment my sport.
The evening session:
My second tennis session of the day is during the evening. Surprisingly, I find it quite rejuvenating. Despite a long day, I am often re-energised by the crisp evening air.
This practice is much lighter than earlier in the day with fun games rather than taxing drills that creatively enhance my game. I finish with a small amount of S&C in the gym. This includes cardio exercises on the machines and using weights and resistant bands before finally heading home for dinner.
Lastly, I try to spend some time doing some tennis-related research. The benefits of this are irrefutable. It is incredible how much invaluable information regarding technical or strategical tips can be found by researching online - although it sometimes takes time to sift through what is truly useful and what isn't.
As a student-athlete, my progress is my responsibility and the work does not stop off-court. In fact, I’ve learnt some of my most valuable lessons regarding my sport through discussions at home. After this, the rest of the evening is free-time during which I’ll usually listen to music or watch Netflix.
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It's the weekend!
The weekend is a well-deserved opportunity for me to take both a mental and physical break. Although I still have a good amount of homework to complete, this is much less intense than normal lessons. I'm able to spend more time on court which means training is more slow-paced and relaxed.
This means I'm able to focus on certain aspects of my game which require a more thought-out approach. The rest of my time is usually spent relaxing, watching my favourite shows or catching up with friends.
Bedtime can be quite late sometimes, even on the weekdays, but after a good night’s sleep I’m always ready for the next day. Ready to face new challenges, improve and take a step closer to my goals.