fit info

Is there a fitness subject that you would like to know more about? If so, email me at cpkarkow@sportswestreno.com and let me know! I'll be happy to find out some info and post it here!
Christine

October 21, 2007

Think Like an Athlete

Design a Tailored Program

The second step in thinking like an athlete is to use the data you’ve collected about needs and performance goals to create a tailored training program. But remember, program design is a dynamic process. As needs and performance goals change over time, so must the program. An athlete who is not continually challenged with greater or varying demands will become stale and burned out. The same is true in life. You must choose the appropriate stimuli to challenge and motivate you, while avoiding burnout.

The principles involved in creating a tailored training program for an athlete include Frequency, Intensity, Duration and Recovery. How do these principles apply to your life and career? Your choices about them affect your health and staying power. Too much of any one training element can be detrimental to your longterm goals.

Frequency. How frequently should you train or coach the same client to get the best results? Too much contact can create dependence or the "tired-of-seeing-each-other" blues. How often do you need or want to invest in continuing education to stay current and motivated?

On the personal side, how often would you like to see family and friends? How many days per week should you be faithfully implementing your own training program?

Intensity. When planning your week, month and year, you need to evaluate how your load varies (or doesn't vary). I've learned to look at my month from a global perspective. I vary my client load, and I plan for when I need a day or a week off. If I work too intensely for too long, I risk getting exhausted and apathetic.

Duration. How much time do you need to spend working on your performance goals in each area of your life? Carve out the necessary time. For example, for each week, I schedule 3 hours of cardiovascular exercise, three 45-minute sessions of strength training, 20 client hours, and 10 hours to work on my business. The rest of my hours are for me and my family.

Recovery. To stay fresh, you need adequate downtime. Plan open time in your day, schedule occasional long weekends and take as many adventuresome or restful vacations as you need. Like your muscles, your spirit will not grow without adequate recovery.

Next week, we'll go into detail about how to apply proven training methods in order achieve the goals you have made for yourself.

Past SWAC Fitness Info Articles