Hypothesis on specialized training models
*Warning* this may bore some
members, please privately message
me to find the solution for you.
With 18 swimming events, fulfilling
the maximum potential in each discipline
requires specific training models.
Also, with the variety of body types,
the training program needs to vary
from person to person. For example,
Dara Torres might not have the
same level of success in a program
designed for Michael Phelps, and
vice versa. So, in order to maximize
either side of the spectrum, a
multi-faceted approach is required.
The point is, one program works very
well for a particular type of person,
and not so good for another. So which
program is better? Neither, that answer
depends on the athlete in question.
So you see, a coach can have success with
either program, and the athlete with a
predisposition for that type of training
will rise to the top.
I need to dispel any myths that one program
is better than another. This only makes
arguable sense when talking about a
particular athlete. So please, the traditional
methods do have merit when training particular athletes.
Although, the Nystrand versus Popov debate is another
example for the need towards flexible technique
analysis. Ultimately, it comes down to the
specific strength and weaknesses of each
particular athlete.
The point is, the depth of potential may
be a higher number than we previously assumed,
and that my friends, is an opportunity.
Happy Swimming,
Jonathan R. Miller:wave:
Parents
Former Member
Jonathon
I just finished a book by the Dutch physiologist Jan Olbrecht on periodization training and the use of blood lactate levels as a marker for training intensity and volume. He asserts the same thing you are suggesting. Once we reach the top margins of individual performance then that is where the variance in an athletes biochemistry becomes really important. What I took from him was that in order for a coach to squeeze that last 1 or 2 percent from an athlete he/she had better study that athlete and individualize their training. The mass approach works to a point but drops off at the top. His data supports what you are suggesting. In fact we are looking at blood testing program for out senior age groupers but wonder if we have the time and expertise to gather and analyze the data properly. Interesting post.
Regards
Spudfin
Jonathon
I just finished a book by the Dutch physiologist Jan Olbrecht on periodization training and the use of blood lactate levels as a marker for training intensity and volume. He asserts the same thing you are suggesting. Once we reach the top margins of individual performance then that is where the variance in an athletes biochemistry becomes really important. What I took from him was that in order for a coach to squeeze that last 1 or 2 percent from an athlete he/she had better study that athlete and individualize their training. The mass approach works to a point but drops off at the top. His data supports what you are suggesting. In fact we are looking at blood testing program for out senior age groupers but wonder if we have the time and expertise to gather and analyze the data properly. Interesting post.
Regards
Spudfin
