Comfort Zone

The summer is an opportunity to reflect. Look back on your season and figure out what skills you need to improve on. Saturday afternoons, summer league, tournaments, and club are all great venues to eliminate some weaknesses from your game. Despite all of the opportunities, I would venture to say though that many people get caught in a process that isn't improving.

Sometimes new throwing form, new skills, and new concepts don't feel right. When adjustment comes, a lot of guys are frustrated by the change. They can't throw as well, they aren't good at it yet, and there isn't that instant gratification. So, instead of looking to evolve as a player, they will continue their old habits. Players will try out something new, but when they realize that it's not initially as good as the old way, they retreat back.

Developing new skills takes time. It is essential that you work outside your comfort zone. I remember I used to throw all my backhands with a finger placed on the outside rim of the disc. When I learned that there was a better way to throw a backhand, my throws were not nearly as crisp with this new "power grip." But each day at practice I would use this grip in warm ups until I got confident enough to use it in the scrimmage. Then once I had mastered the skill in a game like setting, I was able to use it at tournaments. It was aggravating to regress in skill level, but it was necessary. I took one step back to take two forward.

Don't just improve on old, bad habits. Don't feel content with just tossing for 30 minutes and not looking to better your throws. Just because it is easier not to change your form, improve your skillset, or incorporate new concepts doesn't mean it's the best way. Easier is not better. Getting acclimated to new throws can be a frustrating process. It is essential to consistently work outside your comfort zone.

Learn. Apply. Improve. Repeat.