The Weekly Fast Break: Max effort and energy

The word ‘effort’ is defined by Merriam-Webster Dictionary as ‘a conscious exertion of power.’ We talk about effort in our everyday worlds as hard work and making a serious attempt to complete a task. Effort is often equated with an outcome (good or bad), and in the world of sports, sometimes how much blood, sweat and tears you put into a workout, game or match.

Coaches are always looking for players who are willing to give maximum effort in practice and games. The equation is simple: no matter how a game is going, whether your team is winning or losing, or you have missed the last six shots in a row, you control your energy and effort. Coaches know if you are not working as hard as you can because they have seen you do it before and know what you can accomplish. Sleepwalking through practice or pre-game walkthroughs without great effort and intensity does not let you conserve your energy for later – it creates bad habits. Programs that are built upon accountability do not tolerate low energy and lack of effort – those are non-negotiable.