LOS ANGELES, Calif. – For David Beckham, the most surreal moment of his American adventure didn’t come on a soccer field or at a party, but instead involved the Los Angeles Lakers, Jack Nicholson and a Staples Center restroom.
“It was pretty strange,” Beckham said in an exclusive interview with Yahoo! Sports. “I was watching the Lakers. I was waiting to go to the restroom and Jack Nicholson comes out and he just says, ‘It’s all yours, David.’ I was like, ‘He really knows my name?’ ”
Beckham’s five years in California might be coming to a close, with his contract up at the end of the season. The Galaxy takes on the Houston Dynamo in the MLS Cup final on Sunday with the chance to win its first title of the Beckham era.
There was a minor fitness scare when the England midfielder skipped Thursday practice, with reasons for the absence ranging from a strained hamstring to a common cold. Beckham offered no more detail than an admission that he did indeed sit out.
However, it is unthinkable that he would miss Sunday’s showdown, which provides the chance to finally add some tangible silverware to what he feels has been a successful pilgrimage off the field.
When Beckham came to the U.S. in January 2007, it was hoped he could elevate interest in the game and provide a boost in media coverage and attendance. Despite a rocky first season that saw the Galaxy struggle miserably and Beckham struggle through injuries, he has for the most part achieved his goal.
“I have definitely achieved what I wanted to off the field,” Beckham said. “I wanted this game and this league to grow, and I didn’t expect it to happen so quickly. I said back then it wouldn’t happen in one or two years, but in five years a lot has happened. Attendances now rival NBA and NHL – all that in a country where soccer is not the No.1 sport. That is something I am proud to be part of.”
Beckham was unveiled as a Galaxy player in July 2007 at a glittering ceremony at the Home Depot Center attended by a string of celebrities and more than 600 media members from around the world. But he soon cut a lonely and frustrated figure, as the reality of MLS’ lower standard and the deficiencies of his teammates became apparent.
MLS was still relatively unknown then, but growth has been steady, both in terms of standard and recognition. For the past three seasons the Galaxy has claimed the Supporters’ Shield, the title given to the side with the best regular season record. The 36-year-old Beckham frequently gets messages from soccer star friends in England who can access his matches on British television.
Now the aim is to win a trophy, one the Galaxy came to within a whisker of in 2009, but lost the final on penalty kicks to Real Salt Lake. With Beckham, Landon Donovan and Robbie Keane providing the star power and a fine supporting crew including influential Brazilian midfielder Juninho and young American defender Omar Gonzalez, the side is strongly favored to beat the Dynamo.
Beckham suffered similar frustration during his time at Spanish club Real Madrid, which failed to win La Liga in his first three seasons and finally clinched the trophy in his final match there.
“I think you always feel unfulfilled if you don’t win a trophy,” Beckham said. “No matter where I have played … people asked the same question in my fourth year at Real Madrid and I ended it winning a trophy.
“The last three years have been successful but I want to win the final. Everyone wants to win it. We need to be ready.”
After the game Beckham has a decision to make, and there are two favored options. One would be to remain with the Galaxy for one more season, a second would be to switch to the most vocal and financially generous of his suitors, French club Paris St. Germain, allowing him one final crack at playing in the Champions League.
Given that his body does not recover as quickly as it once did – he played much of this season with a fractured spine – retirement could be an option, although he will surely play for the Great Britain Olympic team in London next summer.
The decision-making process will take in many factors, with his ambition, lifestyle and physical health among them.
“I want to finish this season off first, kick back and relax and think about what the future holds for me,” Beckham said. “Whether it will be to continue to play or continue to play here, who knows? I want to be a champion at the end of this season, and then I will decide what happens in the future.
“The best thing about being here is just the experience of playing in a different country with different players and being part of a soccer nation that is growing. Being part of the Galaxy this year, it’s the most enjoyable year I have had here.
“There are certain things we are able to do here that we couldn’t in Europe, but I love London and I love England. I am a very patriotic person about my country. I have loved living here and will continue to love living here because it is a great place to live. Living in L.A. has been incredible for the family. California, the weather, the climate – something like that is a dream. But who knows what is going to happen.”
Beckham and his wife, former Spice Girls singer Victoria, have settled in well to the California lifestyle and gained high-profile friends. The soccer star regularly exchanges text messages with his friend Kobe Bryant, yet any suggestion that he is more interested in showbiz than soccer would be unfounded.
His performances in 2011 have been energetic and outstanding, and were a major reason why the Galaxy did not lose a home game during the regular season. As a teammate, Beckham has the full support and admiration of his colleagues and his commitment to the team is beyond question.
The days when some Galaxy fans were unsure of his dedication to the club have long passed. At the end of both Beckham’s second and third years in L.A., he went on loan to Italian side AC Milan. That decision, based primarily on his wish to remain in contention for selection to the England national team, did not meet with universal approval, especially when he was injured in Milan and missed most of the 2010 MLS campaign. However, Beckham won over the crowd once more this year, and it is clear that he envisages a bright future for American soccer, one in which he’d like to continue to play a role. He has an option to buy an MLS club at a discount, a move likely to happen before too long.
“I definitely would like to be involved in MLS,” Beckham said. “It has been part of my life. Not just living here but being part of MLS, I have enjoyed it. Everyone knows I have an option of a franchise in the league; it is something I am passionate about moving forward.
“The new franchises, the stadiums just for soccer and expansion teams … it shows a growth in a sport in this country. When you look around the league and you see these youth academies in every MLS team, more home-grown talent coming through, it is all positive.
“If it continues to grow like it is growing, it will be up there with the top leagues in the world. Certain things need to happen: We need to bring top talent to this league at a younger age, like 25. That will happen in time. This league has only been going 16 years, and I am proud to have helped it grow.”
Whether or not Beckham signs off in fairytale fashion Sunday, whether or not it is indeed the end, there is no disputing that he has been part of a success story. The ludicrous predictions back in 2007 that he would make soccer a rival to the NFL were not of his making and were simply impossible.
But American soccer is in a far healthier position at the end of David Beckham’s contract (you know, the one that was supposedly worth $250 million but in reality paid one-eighth of that) than it was at the beginning.
For that, the Beckham era can be regarded with fondness. For that, the Beckham Experiment can be said to have passed its test.
Read More:
http://sports.yahoo.com/soccer/news;_ylt=AssZQkB0WEGb6lh5VS6uYn0mw7YF?slug=ro-rogers_beckham_jack_nicholson_staples_111711
Friday 18 November 2011
Wednesday 16 November 2011
Psychology Behind Shadow Boxing Exercises
Shadow boxing exercises are an indispensable part of a boxer's training regime. In this article, we will try to understand the psychology behind shadow boxing exercises along with the benefits of the same.
Boxing is a competitive contact sport in which the participants should not only be in great physical shape but should also have a great presence of mind. No wonder boxers have to train so hard. The training regime includes intense workouts where boxers have to work on their general fitness along with boxing-specific movements. The shadow boxing exercises are an integral part of a boxing workout. Unlike a sparring session wherein a boxer attacks or defends against an actual opponent, shadow boxing is a sparring session without an opponent. It is a kind of workout where the boxer tries to simulate a fight. The boxer attacks and defends against an imaginary opponent. The purpose of this technique is to mentally prepare boxers for events where they have to fight very aggressive boxers by the likes of Muhammad Ali. Other boxers who used this boxing technique include Mike Tyson and the late Joe Frazier. Every aspiring boxer knows how helpful this technique is when it comes to overpowering one's opponent in the boxing ring. The use of shadow boxing technique is not just restricted to boxing, it has been incorporated in various styles of martial arts. The famous Hong Kong actor Bruce Lee was also seen practicing shadow boxing in his films. He incorporated this technique in Jeet Kune Do, a form of martial arts that he founded. If you wish to understand the importance of shadow boxing exercises in boxing training, you can go through this write-up on the psychology behind shadow boxing.
How Does Shadow Boxing Help
The psychology behind shadow boxing exercises is to visualize defeating your opponent. Boxing is a sport wherein the boxer needs to be highly motivated. This is a combat sport where one must be physically fit and mentally alert. Training helps the boxers condition themselves, mentally as well as physically. Boxers not only need to have control on their body, they also need to work on their state of mind. A negative self-image can ruin their chances of winning which is why they must have control over their emotions. Under no circumstances should the boxer feel intimidated or appear to be intimidated by the opponent. Imagery is an integral part of boxing training. Boxers must incorporate the method of visualization during the workout session. Shadow boxing as well as punch bag boxing are great methods that can help a boxer improve his/her concentration. It also helps him/her get into a fighting rhythm.
Throwing punches or practicing a sequence of movements repeatedly while maintaining the fighting stance can help the fighter perfect his moves. This definitely improves one's punching speed and is also a great warm-up session for intense boxing-specific workouts. Being a competitive sport, boxers need to create opportunities and land punches that can overpower the opponent. Not only should the boxer have the ability to focus and observe his opponent's body language, he/she should also be able to make the right decisions at the right time. This can come from practice. The imagery or guided visualization during shadow boxing helps the boxer rehearse his strategic moves. To be able to win, one must first think like a winner. Visualizing yourself in the ring and defeating your opponent during these sessions is definitely the best form of motivation.
Shadow Boxing Techniques
To practice shadow boxing exercises, the fighter needs to face a light-colored wall. There is a light source behind the boxer that projects his/her shadow on the wall. The boxer then practices his/her moves and footwork by treating the shadow as his/her opponent or sparring partner. There are two methods that boxers use in the shadow boxing sessions. These are referred to as the short method and the long method. In the long method of shadow boxing, boxers practice straight punches or jabs as they shuffle their feet back and forth. On the other hand, boxers move their body from left to right while practicing short punches or close body shots while practicing the short method. There are a variety of punching techniques that boxers usually use. These include left jab, left straight, right straight, left hook, right hook, uppercut, liver shot, and other shots to the body. Combination drills where you practice a specific combination of some of these punches in a rhythm can certainly help in honing one's boxing skills. Here are some of the common combinations one could try:
* Left Straight, Right Straight: Here you visualize throwing a punch to the left side of your opponent's head, followed by another punch to the right side.
* Left Hook, Right Hook, Left Hook: For the Left Hook, bring your left hand near your chin and bend your hand at an angle of 90 degrees while punching your opponent's face with your fist. Follow the same action with the right hand and repeat the action with your left hand again.
One can also graduate from the simple shadow boxing exercises to an intense form of workout. Take for instance, the 10x10 shadow boxing circuit wherein boxers can practice a 10-punch combination ten times within a minute. Besides developing speed and accuracy, one also needs to develop punching power. Once one has perfected these moves, one can attempt them while fighting one's sparring partner.
This was a brief overview on shadow boxing exercises. Shadow boxing is definitely a great technique that prepares a boxer for a fight, mentally as well as physically. A boxer can work on his opponent's weaknesses and try to improve his concentration, speed and punch power. Shadow boxing as a technique can help boxers mentally condition themselves for defeating their opponent.
By Smita Pandit
Published: 11/15/2011
Read More:
http://www.buzzle.com/articles/psychology-behind-shadow-boxing-exercises.html
Boxing is a competitive contact sport in which the participants should not only be in great physical shape but should also have a great presence of mind. No wonder boxers have to train so hard. The training regime includes intense workouts where boxers have to work on their general fitness along with boxing-specific movements. The shadow boxing exercises are an integral part of a boxing workout. Unlike a sparring session wherein a boxer attacks or defends against an actual opponent, shadow boxing is a sparring session without an opponent. It is a kind of workout where the boxer tries to simulate a fight. The boxer attacks and defends against an imaginary opponent. The purpose of this technique is to mentally prepare boxers for events where they have to fight very aggressive boxers by the likes of Muhammad Ali. Other boxers who used this boxing technique include Mike Tyson and the late Joe Frazier. Every aspiring boxer knows how helpful this technique is when it comes to overpowering one's opponent in the boxing ring. The use of shadow boxing technique is not just restricted to boxing, it has been incorporated in various styles of martial arts. The famous Hong Kong actor Bruce Lee was also seen practicing shadow boxing in his films. He incorporated this technique in Jeet Kune Do, a form of martial arts that he founded. If you wish to understand the importance of shadow boxing exercises in boxing training, you can go through this write-up on the psychology behind shadow boxing.
How Does Shadow Boxing Help
The psychology behind shadow boxing exercises is to visualize defeating your opponent. Boxing is a sport wherein the boxer needs to be highly motivated. This is a combat sport where one must be physically fit and mentally alert. Training helps the boxers condition themselves, mentally as well as physically. Boxers not only need to have control on their body, they also need to work on their state of mind. A negative self-image can ruin their chances of winning which is why they must have control over their emotions. Under no circumstances should the boxer feel intimidated or appear to be intimidated by the opponent. Imagery is an integral part of boxing training. Boxers must incorporate the method of visualization during the workout session. Shadow boxing as well as punch bag boxing are great methods that can help a boxer improve his/her concentration. It also helps him/her get into a fighting rhythm.
Throwing punches or practicing a sequence of movements repeatedly while maintaining the fighting stance can help the fighter perfect his moves. This definitely improves one's punching speed and is also a great warm-up session for intense boxing-specific workouts. Being a competitive sport, boxers need to create opportunities and land punches that can overpower the opponent. Not only should the boxer have the ability to focus and observe his opponent's body language, he/she should also be able to make the right decisions at the right time. This can come from practice. The imagery or guided visualization during shadow boxing helps the boxer rehearse his strategic moves. To be able to win, one must first think like a winner. Visualizing yourself in the ring and defeating your opponent during these sessions is definitely the best form of motivation.
Shadow Boxing Techniques
To practice shadow boxing exercises, the fighter needs to face a light-colored wall. There is a light source behind the boxer that projects his/her shadow on the wall. The boxer then practices his/her moves and footwork by treating the shadow as his/her opponent or sparring partner. There are two methods that boxers use in the shadow boxing sessions. These are referred to as the short method and the long method. In the long method of shadow boxing, boxers practice straight punches or jabs as they shuffle their feet back and forth. On the other hand, boxers move their body from left to right while practicing short punches or close body shots while practicing the short method. There are a variety of punching techniques that boxers usually use. These include left jab, left straight, right straight, left hook, right hook, uppercut, liver shot, and other shots to the body. Combination drills where you practice a specific combination of some of these punches in a rhythm can certainly help in honing one's boxing skills. Here are some of the common combinations one could try:
* Left Straight, Right Straight: Here you visualize throwing a punch to the left side of your opponent's head, followed by another punch to the right side.
* Left Hook, Right Hook, Left Hook: For the Left Hook, bring your left hand near your chin and bend your hand at an angle of 90 degrees while punching your opponent's face with your fist. Follow the same action with the right hand and repeat the action with your left hand again.
One can also graduate from the simple shadow boxing exercises to an intense form of workout. Take for instance, the 10x10 shadow boxing circuit wherein boxers can practice a 10-punch combination ten times within a minute. Besides developing speed and accuracy, one also needs to develop punching power. Once one has perfected these moves, one can attempt them while fighting one's sparring partner.
This was a brief overview on shadow boxing exercises. Shadow boxing is definitely a great technique that prepares a boxer for a fight, mentally as well as physically. A boxer can work on his opponent's weaknesses and try to improve his concentration, speed and punch power. Shadow boxing as a technique can help boxers mentally condition themselves for defeating their opponent.
By Smita Pandit
Published: 11/15/2011
Read More:
http://www.buzzle.com/articles/psychology-behind-shadow-boxing-exercises.html
Friday 11 November 2011
Training for a Marathon
People tend to think that running a marathon is impossible. However, if you train yourself properly and also focus on nutrition and overall well-being, it is entirely possible. If you work towards building yourself up to running 26.2 miles, it will be difficult, but you can do it.
Find a Training Program
Marathon training will take up a good portion of your life, especially when you do training runs that go for 20 or more miles. These runs can take hours, and you can expect to be exhausted when you are finished with them, making you useless for the rest of the day. It is important then, to find a training program you can live with. Good training programs scaffold, or build on themselves. You should be running about four days a week, with three shorter runs and one longer run. When you start out, you will be running short runs for three days with a longer run on the fourth. During your training, these shorter runs will get longer, as well as the long runs too. This means that eventually you will be running 20 miles or more on some days. If your training program demands you to run 20 miles on a day you work, you may not be able to accomplish it. Choose a program that works with your schedule, and you will be much more successful.
Treadmill versus Outside
Since you will be running the marathon outside, you will want to do much of your training outside. However, you don’t want to run in the rain because this can ruin your shoes and add unnecessary weight in the form of water on your clothes. It can also be a miserable experience to run very far in the rain. If it's raining, you can combine outdoor running with treadmill running, or run all of it on a treadmill. It’s also possible for you to run the next day, which you must.
Rest Days
Rest days are as important as training days. If you don’t rest, your body will not be able to heal itself and you won’t be able to run for very long. In fact, you can risk injury if you run too much. If you must be active, cross-training such as walking or weightlifting can give you a workout without straining the muscles you need for running.
Nutrition
Proper nutrition is just as important as training. If your body isn’t fueled, you won’t be able to keep going. Carbs and protein are very important, as well as energy bars and other aids while you are running. Be sure to drink sports drinks and water, as you don’t want to dehydrate. Also, eat when you are hungry. Training for a marathon will burn many extra calories, so if you are feeling hungry, you probably need more food than you’re used to eating.
Support of Family and Friends
Never underestimate the support of your family and friends. As you are running, your family is at home carrying out your responsibilities. They will help you cook the food you need and take care of things around the house, while you are training. They will also cheer you on, if you ask them to. Do not forget this; moral support is just as important as anything you could do to train for the event. Be sure to thank those who were there for you. Training for a marathon can be hard on family members too, but it never hurts to show your appreciation.
By Buzzle Staff and Agencies
Published: 11/4/2011
from:
http://www.buzzle.com/articles/training-for-a-marathon.html
Find a Training Program
Marathon training will take up a good portion of your life, especially when you do training runs that go for 20 or more miles. These runs can take hours, and you can expect to be exhausted when you are finished with them, making you useless for the rest of the day. It is important then, to find a training program you can live with. Good training programs scaffold, or build on themselves. You should be running about four days a week, with three shorter runs and one longer run. When you start out, you will be running short runs for three days with a longer run on the fourth. During your training, these shorter runs will get longer, as well as the long runs too. This means that eventually you will be running 20 miles or more on some days. If your training program demands you to run 20 miles on a day you work, you may not be able to accomplish it. Choose a program that works with your schedule, and you will be much more successful.
Treadmill versus Outside
Since you will be running the marathon outside, you will want to do much of your training outside. However, you don’t want to run in the rain because this can ruin your shoes and add unnecessary weight in the form of water on your clothes. It can also be a miserable experience to run very far in the rain. If it's raining, you can combine outdoor running with treadmill running, or run all of it on a treadmill. It’s also possible for you to run the next day, which you must.
Rest Days
Rest days are as important as training days. If you don’t rest, your body will not be able to heal itself and you won’t be able to run for very long. In fact, you can risk injury if you run too much. If you must be active, cross-training such as walking or weightlifting can give you a workout without straining the muscles you need for running.
Nutrition
Proper nutrition is just as important as training. If your body isn’t fueled, you won’t be able to keep going. Carbs and protein are very important, as well as energy bars and other aids while you are running. Be sure to drink sports drinks and water, as you don’t want to dehydrate. Also, eat when you are hungry. Training for a marathon will burn many extra calories, so if you are feeling hungry, you probably need more food than you’re used to eating.
Support of Family and Friends
Never underestimate the support of your family and friends. As you are running, your family is at home carrying out your responsibilities. They will help you cook the food you need and take care of things around the house, while you are training. They will also cheer you on, if you ask them to. Do not forget this; moral support is just as important as anything you could do to train for the event. Be sure to thank those who were there for you. Training for a marathon can be hard on family members too, but it never hurts to show your appreciation.
By Buzzle Staff and Agencies
Published: 11/4/2011
from:
http://www.buzzle.com/articles/training-for-a-marathon.html
Peterson hasn’t bought anything since signing $100 million deal
We may be living in a material world, but Adrian Peterson is not a material girl. Or boy. Or super-rich football player.
The Minnesota Vikings running back told SI.com's Jimmy Traina that he had yet to buy anything special since signing a $100 million contract extension in September. Not a new car or an iPad or anything.
During an appearance on the Hot Clicks podcast, Peterson revealed his saving ways:
"I actually haven't purchased anything yet. Haven't bought anything yet. I like to sit back and let my money grow, so I'm going to sit on it for a minute. Something might pop up that I want to purchase, it might be a good investment or something, I don't know, we'll see. As of now, I'm just watching it build up in my account.
"I gotta look out for my family … so I have to be smart about it."
What? No, what your family needs is nine cars, four houses, 200 hours on NetJets, a butler who only folds pajamas and a walk-in cheese cave. Anything else for a family whose main breadwinner has $36 million in guaranteed money coming to him is tantamount to deprivation.
from:
http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/blog/shutdown_corner/post/Peterson-hasn-8217-t-bought-anything-since-sign;_ylt=AtwhetAkybcIZBEXz6H0C4xDubYF?urn=nfl-wp11578
The Minnesota Vikings running back told SI.com's Jimmy Traina that he had yet to buy anything special since signing a $100 million contract extension in September. Not a new car or an iPad or anything.
During an appearance on the Hot Clicks podcast, Peterson revealed his saving ways:
"I actually haven't purchased anything yet. Haven't bought anything yet. I like to sit back and let my money grow, so I'm going to sit on it for a minute. Something might pop up that I want to purchase, it might be a good investment or something, I don't know, we'll see. As of now, I'm just watching it build up in my account.
"I gotta look out for my family … so I have to be smart about it."
What? No, what your family needs is nine cars, four houses, 200 hours on NetJets, a butler who only folds pajamas and a walk-in cheese cave. Anything else for a family whose main breadwinner has $36 million in guaranteed money coming to him is tantamount to deprivation.
from:
http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/blog/shutdown_corner/post/Peterson-hasn-8217-t-bought-anything-since-sign;_ylt=AtwhetAkybcIZBEXz6H0C4xDubYF?urn=nfl-wp11578
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)