By Jennifer Azzi
Betty Lennox went from Rookie of the Year and the only Rookie All-Star in 2000 to the Finals MVP last season (2004). But what happened in between those years? A near career ending hip injury had her sidelined, traded, and many questioned her ability to come back. Most people would have given up, but Betty's mental toughness and drive carried her through three years of inconsistency in the league. Betty credits her success to a lot of hard work, mentally and physically. I was thankful to have been able to watch her live in the Finals last season in Seattle. I have tremendous respect for her work ethic, perseverance and toughness, not to mention the natural grace and athleticism she brings to the game.
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| Betty Lennox, Seattle Storm Rocky Widner/NBAE/Getty Images |
B.L.: Conditioning actually prevents a lot of injuries. It helps me to get into tip-top shape and allows me to play to the fullest of my ability. If I did not condition, and did not get into great shape, I would only be able to play at 50%. I want to be at 100%! The pain of running suicides and conditioning is also great for me mentally.
How did you come back from such a terrible injury?
I had to focus on the areas around the injury, around my hip. Since it will never be a complete hip, I was determined to get stronger to get around that. I was in the weight room, on the football field, doing whatever I could to be strong in that area. I took baby steps. Just to be able to peddle the bike all the way around was a victory for me. There is no quick fix for anything. I had to work really hard, especially without basketball.
What do you do for cardiovascular training?
I like to split up my cardio workouts so I don't get bored. I will warm-up, walking on the treadmill for 5 or 10 minutes, then I will do the bike and the elliptical machine, gradually working up to more intensity.
What about weight or resistance workouts?
I used to lift really heavy weights when I was younger. I would spend 2-3 hours a day in the weight room, alternating upper and lower body days. I worked like a body builder and probably over-trained. Some think my hip injury may have been related to that way of training, but I feel like it gave me a great base of strength and I learned from that. Now, I focus a lot on my core. I use physio balls, medicine balls, and bands a lot. My body maintains strength and I don't have to push as hard.
What motivates you to exercise?
I am easily motivated. I like how I look and feel when I am in shape.
Do you have any motivational tips?
If you can do it mentally, you can do it physically. If people can just get out there and see what they can do it is amazing. There is no pill for getting in shape. The hardest part about conditioning is mental. Set goals and ask how you can accomplish them. Is it in front of the TV, or putting forth the effort? I have trained people in the past, and it could be hard to reach some people at times, but the most successful people set reasonable goals, and had a plan. Exercise does not just make you look good, it makes you feel good on a daily basis.
I admired Betty from afar for many years. While watching her in the All-Star game in 2000, and I overheard someone call her a "gym rat." She had taken her natural God-given talent and combined it with a work ethic second to none and ended up being the best player in the league in last year's Final game. After getting a little insight into her mentality, I understand why she was so great then and is continuing to set the league on fire.
I think we can all learn from Betty's advice. There is no pill, no quick fix for getting into shape. It takes a plan, and dedication to reach your goals. You can truly do anything if you set your mind to it.