Gaming can be a demanding career, so esports players must strive to stay fit in order to perform at their peak performance. Fortunately, there are some simple yet effective methods of staying healthy as an esports pro without needing to dedicate too much time in the gym.
One of the most crucial tasks a pro gamer must ensure they get enough sleep each night. Not only does this have an immense effect on their performance and mental state, but also increases productivity levels!
1. Get Moving
Exercising regularly during your gaming sessions can have a major effect on your health. One of the easiest ways to incorporate movement into your session is setting a timer when logging out for the night and taking some quick laps.
Playing video games while at work can be challenging, but try to make it a habit if possible. There are numerous advantages to being active while playing video games, such as reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and an enhanced gaming experience.
To maintain optimal fitness while gaming, incorporate several types of movement into your routine. This includes cardio exercises and simple stretching techniques.
Some fun exercises to do while gaming include air squats, pushups and jumping jacks. These movements are perfect for improving balance and core strength at the same time; plus you can do them from home!
A comprehensive exercise program should offer you the most efficient and effective workouts tailored to your body type and skill level. For optimal results, incorporate both weight training and resistance exercises into your routine. As many esports players spend hours at their computers, targeting muscles and joints with targeted strength exercises is often recommended as a wise choice.
2. Take Breaks
Gaming is a sedentary activity, so it’s essential to take breaks from gaming in order to stay healthy.
Stretching your muscles helps prevent aches and pains from developing while improving circulation as well.
It can be easy to get wrapped up in a game and neglect taking breaks, but they are essential for your health and performance. Prolonged gaming sessions may lead to eye strain, muscle fatigue, mental fogginess, and poor circulation.
Professional gamers typically spend 50 hours per week gaming, which puts them at risk for repetitive strain injuries like wrist sprains or carpal tunnel syndrome that could significantly impact their playing careers.
To prevent these issues from arising, take regular breaks from gaming and incorporate physical exercise into your routine. Whether that means going for a jog, taking a walk in the park, going on an exercise bike ride, swimming or joining a team sport, getting some movement into each day will keep both mind and body sharp.
Breaks from gaming also provide you with a mental break, which can improve your performance in the game. By minimizing mental fatigue, you will become more focused and enhance overall reaction times.
This can also increase your enjoyment of the game. If you’re feeling burnt out, take a break for several days or weeks to allow your brain to reset and get back into the groove.
Consider these professional gamer fitness tips when striving to meet your health objectives while still having fun playing your favorite hobby. In the end, a healthy body and mind can lead to a happier and more rewarding life.
3. Stretch
Gaming can be a physically taxing activity, so it’s essential to take care of your body. One effective way to do this is by stretching regularly – this helps your muscles warm up for exercise and helps prevent injury.
The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends at least two to three weekly stretch sessions for each major muscle group, as well as doing dynamic stretches before each workout.
Start by sitting in a chair with both feet flat on the floor. Cross your left ankle over your right knee, allowing your right leg to rest atop of the left thigh. Gently draw that knee toward you using both hands until you feel an elastic stretch in its thigh.
Depending on your level of fitness, you may wish to incorporate additional stretches into your routine. If unsure which types of stretches are safe for certain muscle groups, consult with a doctor or fitness expert before beginning any stretching regimen.
Stretching not only warms up your muscles for exercise, but it can also improve performance by decreasing movement latency. This occurs when muscles are too tight to move smoothly and quickly.
Dynamic stretches can be done in many different ways. According to Kate Galliett, a NASM-certified personal trainer and Functional Anatomy Seminars-certified functional range conditioning mobility specialist based in Price, Utah, an easy way to do one is with a simple leg kick.
Stretching can be a great way to unwind before an intense session of gaming. Not only will it reduce stress levels and help focus on the task at hand, but it’s also a self-care ritual that may energize you during playtime.
4. Eat Right
Professional gamers spend a great deal of time in front of the screen, which can be detrimental to their health. It is essential that they maintain proper body conditions so they can play at their peak performance without risking injury.
Nutrition plays a significant role in performance, so it’s essential for any gamer to ensure they’re eating correctly. This will help them avoid nutritional deficiencies and enhance digestion – especially important when competing due to the sedentary nature of competition.
Esports players must ensure they get enough exercise in addition to a healthy diet. Exercise regularly not only boosts moods and endurance, but it can also sharpen focus and speed up reaction time.
It is essential to get enough sleep each night in order to maximize energy for playing the next day.
If you find that you are always hungry throughout the day, try to incorporate different foods into your meals and snacks. Eating three meals a day is recommended so your body gets all of its necessary nutrients.
Additionally, try to incorporate plenty of vegetables into your diet. Doing so will provide a beneficial balance of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants which can strengthen your immunity.
Aside from eating nutritiously, it is essential to drink enough water each day. Doing so can help avoid dehydration which could negatively impact your mood and concentration levels.
Finally, it is vital for esports players to get enough sleep each night. Doing so will guarantee you can play without risking injury the following day.