3 answers
Madelyn
Student
Canal Winchester, Ohio
1
Question
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What does a day in the life of a student- athlete look like for someone with an exercise science major?
I’m going to college to play softball and my major as of now is going to be exercise science and I want to know what the daily looks like.
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3 answers
Francesca Taracila
3
Answers
Orange, Ohio
Updated
Francesca’s Answer
Hi Madelyn!
As a current student-athlete studying neuroscience on the pre-med track, I can say it is definitely a big commitment. I run cross-country and track at the DIII level, so weekends are pretty packed with travel to/from meets, and I have morning practice every day. There are a few restrictions on my academic schedule because classes (for the most part) cannot interfere with my sports schedule. Additionally, because weekends can be busy in season, this hinders my involvement in some other extracurriculars (several clubs have events on the weekends, but most general body meetings are during the week, so that shouldn't be affected). That said, the time commitment is definitely manageable, and being part of a sports team has kept me disciplined and introduced me to a very positive, supportive group of people. Some factors to consider when playing a sport in college are your college's division, coaching staff, team dynamic, practice schedule, and game schedule. Every college and sports team is different, and it is important to weigh out your options and consider what you value in both a team and your education. Overall, I would recommend joining a team, as it has drastically improved my college experience. I would also start reaching out to coaches soon if you haven't already. Good luck!
As a current student-athlete studying neuroscience on the pre-med track, I can say it is definitely a big commitment. I run cross-country and track at the DIII level, so weekends are pretty packed with travel to/from meets, and I have morning practice every day. There are a few restrictions on my academic schedule because classes (for the most part) cannot interfere with my sports schedule. Additionally, because weekends can be busy in season, this hinders my involvement in some other extracurriculars (several clubs have events on the weekends, but most general body meetings are during the week, so that shouldn't be affected). That said, the time commitment is definitely manageable, and being part of a sports team has kept me disciplined and introduced me to a very positive, supportive group of people. Some factors to consider when playing a sport in college are your college's division, coaching staff, team dynamic, practice schedule, and game schedule. Every college and sports team is different, and it is important to weigh out your options and consider what you value in both a team and your education. Overall, I would recommend joining a team, as it has drastically improved my college experience. I would also start reaching out to coaches soon if you haven't already. Good luck!
Jane Akinyemi
Lecturer
21
Answers
Salem, Massachusetts
Updated
Jane’s Answer
Hi Madelyn,
I am glad you are asking this questions to enable you to excel in your studies and as an athlete.
As a student-athlete studying exercise science you are going to have a busy daily routine that balances training, studying, and recovery. This will certainly require discipline. Your day starts early with morning workouts, including light breakfast and strength training. After training, you take time to stretch, hydrate, and prepare for classes.
Mid-morning to early afternoon is dedicated to academic classes such as biomechanics, anatomy, and physiology, often involving practical labs.
Lunch provides you with energy for the rest of the day, which includes more classes or study sessions, sometimes with academic advisors or tutors.
In the late afternoon, the focus shifts back to sports practice or games, depending on the sport. After practice, recovery activities like ice baths, physical therapy, or massages are common. You may observe or assist in rehab techniques during this time.
Evenings are reserved for dinner, homework, group projects, and exam preparation. To wind down, you often do light stretching, journaling, or mindfulness exercises to promote good sleep and mental health.
On weekends, the schedule can change due to game days, travel, or longer lab sessions. Prioritizing rest and recovery remains important. Challenges faced by student-athletes include managing their time effectively, often using planners or apps.
Your studies in exercise science helps you understand training, injury prevention, and nutrition better, which can improve your athletic performance. To maintain balance, you will require support from coaches, trainers, and academic advisors.
I hope this helps,
Dr Jane Akinyemi
I am glad you are asking this questions to enable you to excel in your studies and as an athlete.
As a student-athlete studying exercise science you are going to have a busy daily routine that balances training, studying, and recovery. This will certainly require discipline. Your day starts early with morning workouts, including light breakfast and strength training. After training, you take time to stretch, hydrate, and prepare for classes.
Mid-morning to early afternoon is dedicated to academic classes such as biomechanics, anatomy, and physiology, often involving practical labs.
Lunch provides you with energy for the rest of the day, which includes more classes or study sessions, sometimes with academic advisors or tutors.
In the late afternoon, the focus shifts back to sports practice or games, depending on the sport. After practice, recovery activities like ice baths, physical therapy, or massages are common. You may observe or assist in rehab techniques during this time.
Evenings are reserved for dinner, homework, group projects, and exam preparation. To wind down, you often do light stretching, journaling, or mindfulness exercises to promote good sleep and mental health.
On weekends, the schedule can change due to game days, travel, or longer lab sessions. Prioritizing rest and recovery remains important. Challenges faced by student-athletes include managing their time effectively, often using planners or apps.
Your studies in exercise science helps you understand training, injury prevention, and nutrition better, which can improve your athletic performance. To maintain balance, you will require support from coaches, trainers, and academic advisors.
I hope this helps,
Dr Jane Akinyemi
allie sundara
Operations Manager
1
Answer
Seattle, Washington
Updated
allie’s Answer
I wasn't in the same major, but I was a student athlete who played volleyball. My mornings during the season were busy with team workouts, and in the evenings, we had practice. I squeezed classes in throughout the day. The in-season schedule was pretty packed, with study sessions in my free time and daily practices or team events. Sundays were always free, so I got to hang out with friends, which was great. Overall, it was a fantastic experience! In the off-season, we did conditioning and lifting three times a week, which was a fun way to stay connected with the team while enjoying a bit more flexibility.