The Training Programme

A training programme must meet the needs of the performer and relate to the game or activity that the individual is training for. It should be carefully planned to be carried out over a prolonged period of time. This planning should aim to achieve climax at competition time and take into account the close season of any activity.

There are four issues to be considered when planning a training programme.

Remember SPIRe:

• S = Suitability
• P = Preparation
• I = In season
• Re = Recuperation

1. Suitability for training – individuals must ensure that they are capable of following a sustained training programme. They must be free from injury and illness, have access to training facilities and have a genuine desire to improve their performance.

2. Preparation – off-season or out-of-season training should concentrate on maintaining a basic fitness level, aim to attain the correct body weight for the chosen sporting activity and include the acquisition of any essential skills.

Pre-season training should include the progressive development of the energy systems, through both aerobic and anaerobic work, the development of strength and the practice of team-play situations.

3. In-season – competition training should aim to maintain fitness and skill levels, fluctuating in intensity so that the performer can peak at different times (relating to major events) throughout the season. Training should rise to a peak and then be followed by a number of rest days just before major competitions.

4. Recuperation – post-season training should not be overlooked. At the end of the competitive season it is essential that the performer continues with a light training programme to allow the body to recover from the stresses and strains of the season. It is at this time that more serious injuries should be dealt with prior to the start of off-season work.

You should be able to describe a training programme for a sport that you know well.