As any college athlete knows, summer isn't really a break from working out and playing your sport. Summer is when the real work happens, the behind the scenes, not so pretty, nobody is watching nitty gritty stuff. Summer workouts are the time that you have to make yourself put in the time, and trust me, it's way easier said than done. Here's just a few common thoughts of those training for a sports team that will be back together in August.

1. "This is my summer."

Everyone starts out strong. First few days back home, I have my workouts planned out and I'm motivated to get that summer bod. This is easy. Week one is done and you didn't miss a day. You, also, cannot walk from the soreness, but NBD, next week will be easier.

2. "One off day is okay."

Next week will not be easier. All of your friends are finally home and everyone is moved back and its time to catch up and PARTY. For a workout routine, there is nothing worse than a good late night friend reunion. Seems harmless at 2 a.m., but a 9 o'clock alarm sets a different tone.

3. "Ah, vacation time."

Alright, you've been doing pretty good on your work outs, not missing too many days. Then, BAM, vacation smacks you right in your beer gut, because after 7 days of "its vacation, I shouldn't have to work out" you probably feel like you have one. And you actually might.

4. "I still have a month left, I'm fine."

Maybe. If you work REALLY hard in the last month, but its probably time to get it going... and hard. The last month is hard, because you want to see all your friends, but its pretty crucial to get a good work out in that day too. Find a balance, make it work or just kiss your social life good-bye. Yeah, that's probably the better option.

5. "If I work out really hard the last two weeks, I'll be good."

WRONG. Do not try this. You will die in your school gym. It will be slow, painful death and you will only be laughed at by your teammates. Two weeks is not enough time, start sooner if you value your life, or at least your ability to walk normal.

6. "I'm dead."

Ultimately, no matter how much you work out over the summer, your coach has spent the summer concocting a new and improved list of "ways to kill athletes and call it conditioning." Give it your best effort and get in the best shape you can, your death is imminent, just try and prolong it the best you can.

Good luck to all my fellow athletes out there as August is rapidly approaching... you got this!