If you've read the first two parts of this tip, you are probably wondering where the fun is in summertime preparation. Here we are!

Depending on your overall goals, summer wrestling may some day be more important than the high school season.

You no doubt got into wrestling because it was fun. Wrestling in the summer has an extra benefit: you get to do what you enjoy without the pressures of the school year and the season!

In truth, there is no set season for a wrestler, only a set schedule. Take advantage of summer events to compete, get mat time, and improve your skills.

The best place to start is with national events sanctioned by USA Wrestling.

If you can't participate in some of these events, you might want to at least try to attend them. This will give you the opportunity to observe technique and consider the aspects of wrestling from a different perspective. In that sense, watching others wrestle is mental training. Plus, wrestling is a great deal of fun to watch.

In the summer, your immediate goal should be to improve your body, mind, and ability. We're not saying you shouldn't compete if you take part in summer events. But this is not the time of year for you to peak like you did in February. You should instead concentrate on becoming a better wrestler!

• Part 1: Weight Training
• Part 2: Running
• Part 3: Summertime Wrestling

Also: Take advantage of summer to lose excess weight!

Check out our losing and maintaining weight tip to drop pounds safely without affecting your performance!