Wake Up To The Power Of One
Finding Joy in Movement Beyond Competition
-- By Holland Methe
For many of us, sports start as a source of joy and passion. But as time goes on, the pressure to compete, injuries, or just life’s twists and turns can take that spark away. If you’ve stepped away from competition, it doesn't mean your relationship with movement has to end. In face, it can mark the beginning of something new - a chance to reconnect with your body and rediscover the love of being active.
"Regular movement adds years to your life, and life to your years”—Holland Methe
Learn about the benefit that Knowing Your Numbers can have on your performance.
Why Does it Matter?
Physical activity is more than just a way to win medals or break records. It’s about mental clarity, physical strength, and finding a sense of accomplishment. Moving for the joy of it, not because you’re chasing a trophy or scholarship, can make all the difference.
Reconnecting with Movement
Transitioning out of competitive sports can be tough. When your identity is tied to being an athlete, it’s easy to feel lost without that structure. But by shifting your mindset, you can uncover new ways to enjoy movement.
1. Try something new: Maybe you’ve always wanted to try yoga, hiking or even paddleboarding. Stepping outside your comfort zone can reignite the excitement.
2. Set personal goals: Instead of focusing on competition, think about what’s meaningful to you. Maybe it’s running a 5k, improving your flexibility, or just getting outside more often.
3. Find your people: Being part of a community can make movement more fun. Join a group fitness class, a recreational league, or a club. The friendships and connections can be just as rewarding as the activity itself.
Letting Go of Perfection
One of the best parts of moving away from competition is realizing that you don’t have to be perfect. Physical activity becomes less about hitting a specific number and more about feeling good in your own skin. When you embrace this mindset, you open the door to…
● Playfulness: moving because it feels good, not because you have to
● Gratitude: appreciating what your body can do today, even if it is different from the past
● Flexibility: letting go of rigid plans and doing what works in the moment
Why It’s Worth It and Resources
1. Mental Health Boost: Exercise helps reduce stress and improve your mood
2. Sharper Focus: Staying active can improve memory and cognitive function.
3. Longevity: Regular movement adds years to your life, and life to your years.
Found your number? Now, try this:
Play back a game where you feel you didn’t perform your best.
Think about how you felt when you went into it. What number were you at? Was it higher than YOUR number? Or lower?
If your number was higher:
Calm yourself down before you play the game or perform. That could mean breathwork, a bit of visualization at the mind gym, or listening to tranquil music and meditation before you start.
If your number was too low:
Put on some pump-up music and visualize yourself making every pass, every play, every moment perfectly. Get yourself up to that number for the moment you take center stage.
Personal Journey
As a former college cheerleader, I know what it’s like to pour everything into a sport. Cheerleading taught me discipline and resilience, but injuries and mental burnout left me wondering what was next. I started exploring other ways to move - pilates, swimming, and even intramural football. I found a new appreciation for my body. It wasn’t about competition anymore, it was about feeling strong and connected.
Stepping away from competitive sports doesn’t mean leaving behind your love for movement. It is an opportunity to redefine what it means to you. Whether you’re trying something new, setting personal goals, or just getting back to basics, the key is to make it your own. Take it one step at a time, and the joy will follow.
“Stepping away from competitive sports doesn’t mean leaving behind your love for movement” - Holland Methe
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