
Wellness Ideas for Athletes
Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
Taking care of yourself and implementing a wellness program during your daily routine is crucial, especially when competing in athletic events.
Staying hydrated, completing workouts, and mentally preparing are items athletes need to consider when participating in a beach tournament. Time is of the essence during an active week, so to get the most out of your fitness level, we created a list of four mental and physical wellness suggestions for athletes (and friends/families) competing on Alabama's Beaches!

1. Treat Yourself
Pamper yourself at one of the many local spas. Take time during your visit to help those tense muscles and improve stress associated with the physical demands of being an athlete. Rejuvenate muscles with a hot stone massage to improve your mental stress level and the overall well-being of your entire body.
2. Stretch & Unwind
Beach yoga is the perfect activity for stretching and soothing muscles before or after a competition, and we have miles of space for it. Need some guidance? Opt for private lessons on the beach or traditional classes indoors. Whether practiced as a beginner or an expert, yoga can help restore balance, strength, flexibility and more.

3. Get Lost
Nature and relaxing outdoors is a great way to clear your mind. Gulf State Park offers a variety of activities that provide downtime for your body and mind. Take a leisurely paddle through Lake Shelby or take in a breath of fresh air and natural scenery along the 28-mile Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail on foot, bike or Segway.
4. Take a Walk
A peaceful walk on the beach or meditating during sunset are also wonderful ways to destress after pushing your body to its limits. Or consider a sunrise stroll! Soak up the area's beauty to recharge your senses.
And, don't forget the supplies! Looking for a new yoga mat, walking shoes or athleisure clothing? Look no further than Academy Sports + Outdoors, The Wharf and Tanger Outlet Center!