Planning the long term training + Event Program Flashcards
What are the components that should influence the training programme?
The main components which should influence the training program are;
1 - Calendar of Events
It is advisable to plan the calendar of competitions over a four year period (quadrennial) in order to peak for a major event. The annual calendar (Macro cycle) is then set out into periods, each with four Meso cycles: Transition period, Preparation-training period, pre-competition period and competition period. The Micro cycle (1 week) is then based upon the criteria for training in that part of the programme.
2 - Technical Components
This includes the systematic use of progressive skills to develop the correct concept of the individual elements and the perfection of those elements. This is the main feature of the early part of the preparation training period. The full routine is derived by many repetitions of combinations, part routines and then full routines. The gymnast competes with full routines and consequently, if he/she is to perform with confidence, they must be trained many times. This aspect of training is the main focus in the later stages of the pre-competition and competition phases.
3 - Psychological Component
Psychological skills must be learnt and must be included in the training programme. They will optimise the learning of gymnastic skills and improve the performance in competition.
4 - Physical Component which is split into three aspects:
4a - Physical Preparation to Facilitate Learning
This includes the development of flexibility, strength, endurance strength, power and isometric strength to facilitate the learning of gymnastic skills. The preparation may be ‘general’ involving larger muscle groups and broader concepts such as body tension, jumping strength etc or ‘specific’ in which precise exercises are used to exercise the joints/muscles in skill related activities.
4b- Physical Preparation for Multiple Repetitions
The development of muscular and cardio-respiratory endurance will enable many repetitions to be performed, thereby permitting optimal use of training time. This form of preparation will also facilitate the performance of full routines.
4c - Physical Preparation for Competition
The demands for competition are much less than those for training. However, the performance in training and in simulated competition training of many full routines will ensure adequate fitness and self-confidence on the competition day.
