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Pre-Season Training

Posted: Wed Jan 07, 2004 5:56 pm
by new coach
I am planning a pre-season training program for a high school track and field program. I am turning around a program that has never considered pre-season training. I would like advice on whether a one hour a day approach for January and February would be worthwhile to athletes who have never conditioned during the pre-season. I plan to focus on strength training and aerobics. I would incorporate speed intensity in March. Is this logical? Any suggestions?

Pre-Season Training

Posted: Thu Jan 15, 2004 8:39 pm
by George Payan
Here is the ideal program to be successful. This includes all coaches getting involved now, not when the season starts. You can be in the top 20% or be like the other 80%.

If you have 15-16 events in which to compete, start now on technique. Technique and conditioning is what makes a team competitive. After the warm up, work on the technique that the event requires. After technique, work on conditioning. After conditioning, work on strength training.

One hour a day is not enough. If you are limited with time or rules, the first priority is technique. If you have no limitations, follow the above format. You could have up to six technical events. On a day of competition, it could appear you are winning on the track; however, if you did not work on the technical events, you will lose the meet. The most successful track teams are technique oriented in the field events. You cannot wait until March to start technique work. By the first meet, athletes should be proficient in technique. It takes a lot of practice.

Speed should also be incorporated into workouts at this time. The goal is for workouts to be 90-100%. Start now to gradually reach this goal. This includes field events. Gradually work on strength and intensity.

A recommendation with limitations:

Monday, Wednesday, Friday
Technique

Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Strength training

A recommendation without limitations:

Work on technique daily.

This program will reap rewards. After winning the Championship, the athletes will appreciate what they have learned and all the hard work.

Coach Payan
www.CoachesEducation.com