PDHPE Syllabus - Option 4: Improving Performance

Question 1

• strength training

Answer 1

• resistance training (elastic hydraulic)
• weight training (e.g. plates, dumbbells).
• isometric training

Question 2

• aerobic training

Answer 2

• continuous / uniform
• fartlek
• long interval

Question 3

• initial planning considerations

Answer 3

• performance and fitness needs (individual, team).
• schedule of events / competitions.
• climate and season.

Question 4

• planning a training year (periodisation)

Answer 4

• phases of competition (pre-season, in-season and off-season phases).
• subphases (macro and microcycles).
• peaking
• tapering
• sport-specific subphases (fitness components, skill requirements)

Question 5

• elements to be considered when designing a training session

Answer 5

• health and safety considerations
• providing an overview of the session to athletes (goal-specific).
• warm up and cool down.
• skill instruction and practice.
• conditioning
• evaluation.

Question 6

• planning to avoid overtraining

Answer 6

• amount and intensity of training
• physiological consideration (e.g. lethargy, injury).
• psychological considerations (e.g. loss of motivation).

Question 7

• use of drugs

Answer 7

• the dangers of performance enhancing drug use (e.g. physical effects, loss of reputation, sponsorship and income).
• for strength ( human growth hormone, anabolic steroids).
• for aerobic performance (EPO).
• to mask other drugs (diuretics, alcohol).
• benefits and limitations of drug testing.

Question 8

• use of technology

Answer 8

• training innovation (e.g. lactate threshold testing, biomechanical analysis).
• equipment advances (e.g. swimsuits, golf ball, cycling).