Why off-season training is so important
The off-season is where the magic happens.
Pressure... your kid feels it every day.
Pressure to get the grades.
Pressure to make the team.
Pressure about looks.
Pressure about friends.
Pressure to keep up.
And too often, pressure leads to anxiety, panic, and depression. As a coach for over 35 years and a former member of the United States Team, I can assure you of one thing: anxious, stressed out kids don't excel in anything. Let's bring it home to cheer/tumbling/gymnastics...
During the season the pressure is high. I have to get this pass perfected or the coach will not let me tumble. If I don't throw it, we won't get our bid. It will be my fault if we have to re-choreograph everything. What am I gonna do if I don't make the squad/team? The athlete is too anxious to focus, and an athlete who can't focus can't learn. Worse yet, they can even become a danger to themselves.
That is why I love the off season so much. Take all that pressure away and watch their temperature come down. See that smile again. See the pure love of the sport come back. Watch how much they achieve when they don't feel like everyone wants a piece of them.
As the pressure winds down, consider diving in deeper to learning new skills. This is a great time to start a new class, add on a class, or even go premier (unlimited classes).
I know it is impossible for this not to sound like a sales pitch. But as a former athlete, a coach, and a dad to athletes, I can tell you with certainty that OFF SEASON is where the magic happens.
No deadlines.
No ominous demands.
Just happy athletes loving a sport, laughing and learning.
Just some food for thought,
Coach Max Dempsey
About Coach Max Dempsey
Coach Max Dempsey is a longtime gymnastics coach, published author, father of 8, and co-owner of Gymnastics Academy North in Roscoe. A five-time Elite National Champion, former U.S. Team member, and Pan-American gold medalist, Coach Max brings decades of experience to the sport. Alongside his wife, Donya, he has helped build a local program focused on developing young athletes in a structured and supportive environment. Together, the two bring more than 70 years of combined experience in gymnastics, cheerleading, and competitive sports. Through his coaching and writing, Coach Max shares insight on training, mindset, and the discipline behind competitive athletics. Originally from Mobile, Alabama, the Dempseys now call Roscoe home, where they continue to coach and contribute to the local athletics community.
