EKAITZ SAIES

Some time ago, just before an important international event, I had the opportunity to visit our team during one of their training camps. The camp was held at a picturesque spa resort nestled in a quiet, scenic area, overviewing vineyards. Some afternoons, when they had breaks from their rigorous training sessions, they would head to the thermal pools. Taking the time to soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters, easing their muscles and minds in the calming atmosphere. They would sit in groups or sometimes alone, talking in low voices or simply sitting in reflective silence. The gentle ambiance of the spa seemed to provide a rare escape from the pressures of their demanding routines.

During those evenings at the dinner table, I could tell there was something different in the air compared to the hard training days. The athletes appeared visibly more relaxed, their expressions softer and laughter more frequent. Conversations flowed easily; there was a depth and openness that I hadn’t seen when they’d been grinding through two or three intense training sessions a day. They shared stories, exchanged insights, and genuinely enjoyed one another’s company, often lingering at the table long after the plates had been cleared. It struck me that this blend of focused training with intentional rest and relaxation not only supported their physical recovery but also created a space for them to connect on a personal level, strengthening their bond as a team.

In the high-stakes world of the super-champions, physical and mental preparation are prioritized, yet emotional well-being is often overlooked. Emotional restoration—recovering from stress, balancing emotions, and revitalizing mental energy—is crucial for athletes to stay focused and resilient in the face of intense demands. This chapter explores the concept of emotional restoration for high-performance athletes during the SPRING period. [CONTINUE READING THE CHAPTER AND DOWNLOAD THE FULL CHAPTER HERE]

*You can download all the other chapters that I have shared on my blog: https://ekaitzsaies.com/blog-posts/