With the dreariness of winter hopefully behind us, it’s time to start getting ready for the spring. Nicer weather should be taken advantage of and that’s why many people get into various springtime sports, such as baseball, lacrosse and soccer. On Long Island, there’s plenty of places where youth and adult programs are held for people interested in improving their skills.
From personal training to physical therapy to team workouts, here are five of the best places on Long Island to make the leap into sports again.
Storm Sports Academy
7 Terminal Rd., West Hempstead; 516-481-2255; www.stormsportsacademy.com
A 20,000-square foot facility, the Storm Sports Academy opened in 2013 and has already built itself as a top facility in the northeast. In addition to training in baseball, it is also home to travel baseball teams that have been around for more than 15 years. Recent teams were sponsored by New York Mets pitcher Matt Harvey and 2015 Mets first-round pick Justin Dunn. They also have training and teams for lacrosse and a softball program which they refer to as the “Storm Fastpitch Academy.” If you are into international favorites like soccer or cricket, they have training for those as well.
Professional Athletic Performance Center
645 Stewart Ave., Garden City; 516-227-2373; www.papcstrong.com
Open since 2005, PAPC works with all kinds of athletes from young to old and amateur to elite. They expand well beyond just skill training. It is also a top-notch physical therapy center for those dealing with injuries. Trainers will teach athletes skill sets for various sports (baseball, basketball, swimming, etc.), but will also help them develop ways to prevent injuries while playing them. The facility includes a 55-meter track and a professional weight room. They are also an official affiliate of the New York Islanders.
Train For The Game Long Island
545 Bedford Ave., Bellmore; 516-809-9700; www.trainforthegameli.com
Train For The Game is more of a group-oriented training facility, with youth and adult group programs. You have an option to be part of a smaller group (2-3 athletes) or a large one (10-12). However, that doesn’t mean the coach doesn’t try to help you individually, as they will personalize your workout depending on your needs. They also host metabolic fat burning classes for those who want a higher intensity workout.
Athletic & Fitness Trainers of Long Island
200 Old Sunrise Hwy., Massapequa; 516-797-1185; www.aftli.com
AFTLI has worked with a wide range of athletes at an elite level, but that doesn’t mean the facility isn’t open to everybody. They work one-on-one or with small groups to help you train through scientific principles. That may sound complex, but AFTLI tailors their services to make it a more comfortable experience. All of their work is done in a high-tech, 6,000-square foot facility and will most likely help you improve in any sport you play in.
Long Island Sports Center
22 Lumber Rd., Roslyn; 516-621-1402; www.longislandsportscenter.com
If you want something that’s a little bit more tame, The Long Island Sports Center might be for you. The center focuses mainly on badminton, table tennis and indoor soccer. In addition to it being open for recreational use, they offer youth and adult group training sessions on badminton. You can also book the center’s soccer mats and participate in Table Tennis League nights on Fridays.
