initial planning considerations
planning of a training year (periodisation)
pre season (6-12 weeks, improve all aspects of fitness) - general and specific stages
in season (maintain developed fitness)
post season (recovery with reduction in sport but not a complete stop)
macrocycles (annual)
mesocycles (6-12 weeks)
microcycles (7-10 days)
fitness components (speed, ability, power, strength, flexibility)
skill components
use data from previous seasons and current performance
address the comp period
training plans should suit schedules
consider seasonal variation
prepare athletes for training and comp (acclimatise)
optimised for comps
heightened rate of recovery, tuned for optimal functioning etc.
heightened self confidence and motivation
volume and intensity decreases
allows for rebuild of tissue
strength training
safe: appropriate to individual level
focus on major muscle groups
high rep and moderate loads
use of spotters
elastic - not very durable (regularly inspected for safety)
- exposure to progressively increasing stimuli
hydraulic (e.g. pool water)
- can enhance strength development
heavy (increases muscle size), light (muscle endurance)
plates - set to exact loads for full range of motion
dumbbells - versatility and importnat in rehab
not as popular
+ equipment needed is minimal
+ valuable in injury rehab
flexibility training
injury prevention and rehab
improved skill execution
minimising DOMS
held for 10-30s
very safe
used in rehab, warm-up and cool down
slow controlled movement through full range of motion
reach and speed is gradually increased
raises muscle and core body temperature
prep for activities with explosive movements
can be harmful - if strength reflex is activated (cause microtears in muscle fibres)
injury prevention - warm-up, cool down and stretching
- using spotters and having knowledge of how to use equipment
protective equipment (e.g. mouthguards, helmets) - worn during practice and games
general equipment (e.g. bats, clubs) - should be checked regularly
apparel - comfortable clothing
- good footwear
environmental hazards
- sport specific (e.g. sunglasses against UV rays)
illnesses - risks of influenza and colds should be minimised
inform athletes of the intentions of the coach
gather players to address specific issues
e.g. player attendance, assessment of injuries, outline specific goals etc.
phase 1 - general warm up (until sweating)
phase 2 - stretching (beyond performance range)
phase 3 - callisthenics (large muscle groups)
phase 4 - skill rehearsal (perform routines required later)
cool-down - return body to pre-exercise state
delivery of knowledge by a coach ot the players
- prior organisation and good communication
inform about other aspects of the session
should be:
immediately follows
immediately follows warm-up
not meant to fatigue the players (stay in 70-80% of MHR)
avoid excess build up of lactic acid
continue to address fitness needs during the skills practice
regular testing to provide feedback