At press, we’re all coming off of the high of the 2024 Summer Olympic Games. Nearly every household across Vancouver, BC, Canada, America, and around the planet has tuned in to celebrate the magic of athletic competition. Next to Tzatziki sauce it is Ancient Greece’s greatest contribution to the world.
The Games inspire athletes to reach for the highest level of their respective sport, be it in the arena, pool, court, track, or field (etc.). Are you among them? Do you have your sights set on going for gold for the next edition of the Games and are wondering how to prepare for the Olympics? You of course know that relentless work, practice, and training are required. However, more is needed to draw a line between today and Milan-Cortina Italy (2026 Winter Olympics), Los Angeles CA (2028 Summer Olympics) and beyond. Below is a practical and succinct breakdown of the steps you need to take.
5 Practical (yet Critical) Steps to Prepare Yourself for the Next Olympic Games
Step I: Abide by the Olympic Charter, IF, and NOC
Before lifting a finger or foot, you should study the Olympic Charter and ensure adherence to the rules (nationality, rules, etc.) of the International Federation (IF) governing their sport. The IFs establish the rules and organize qualifying events, while the National Olympic Committee (NOC) of your country (Canada, in this case) supports you and fellow athletes and is responsible for entering you for participation.
- Olympic Charter: Chapter 5, Rules 40-44
- National Olympic Committees
- International Sports Federations
Step II: Identify Olympic Qualifiers for Your Sport
There is a maximum number of athletes per NOC. They are determined by their respective results at qualifying events that may occur both within one’s country (Canada, for you) and internationally. These events generally lead into an Olympic Qualifier Series where the final roster is determined. Let’s look to an exciting new entry into the Summer Olympic Games, breakdancing, as an example. Below is a breakdown of the events athletes must compete (and succeed) at:
- World Dance Sport Federation (WDSF) World Championships (occurring in the year prior to the Olympic Games)
- Continental Games/Continental Championships (5 events occurring in the year prior to the Olympic Games)
- Olympic Qualifiers Series (occurring in the year of the Olympic Games)
Ultimately, Athletics Canada (click here) will be your resource to identify the series of events that you need to compete in to improve your national rank to qualify for the next Olympic Games. You also want to familiarize yourself with the association responsible for governing Olympic qualifying for your sport. For instance, if you plan to compete for Team Canada in surfing, you would connect to the Canadian Surf Association (here) to get on the qualifying system for Team Canada for the International Surfing Association (here). Meanwhile, if you want to represent Team Canada in tennis, you must get on the Tennis Canada circuit (here). The list for all associations and federations is as long as the list of sports included in the Summer and Winter Olympic Games. A simple Google search for YOUR sport will unveil which you need to connect with.
Step III: Work with a Qualified a Coach / Trainer
If you don’t already have one, you will need a coach to prepare you for qualifiers and subsequent participation in the Olympics. The Coaching Association of Canada provides coaches with National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) credentials. You can verify the NCCP qualifications of a coach (with their permission) on their designated Coach Transcript page. When you find candidates near you (in Vancouver BC, etc.) you can request their NCCP number and verify their credentials right here.
Step IV: Work with a Sports Nutritionist
Enhance your training through improved nutrition. This is a critical component to Olympic Games preparedness. The Dietitians Canada (DC) Sports Nutrition Network (SNN) qualifies students and professional to support athletes. You can find a sports nutritionist on their website if desired, or you can perform an online search for a sports nutritionist near you in Canada.
Step V: Start Physiotherapy Today
Lastly, enhance your training with through physiotherapy. Don’t wait for an injury to occur before making physiotherapy a part of your Olympic Games preparedness plan. A full service physiotherapy clinic with a team of discipline-specific experts (acupuncture, chiropractic, massage therapy, etc.) will help prevent sports injuries from occurring while assisting coaches and trainers in enhancing your performance, not just through improved musculoskeletal function but improved athlete mindset as well.
Are you located in Greater Vancouver BC? If so, our Burnaby clinic and team of specialists will help prepare you to train, compete, and succeed in the next Olympic Games. Schedule a consultation today to get started.