Bridge the Gap Practical: Programming Tactics for Speed/Power Athletes Training Toward the 2018 Games

Bridge the Gap Lecture: Programming Tactics for Speed/Power Athletes Training Toward the 2018 Games

Bridge the Gap Practical: Programming Tactics for Speed/Power Athletes Training Toward the 2018 Games

Bridge the Gap Lecture: Programming Tactics for Speed/Power Athletes Training Toward the 2018 Games

Learn about how a potentiating stimulus can induce a postactivation potentiation (PAP) response in vertical jump, sprint, and upper-body performance, as well as the optimal structure of a strength-power potentiating complex.

This article highlights four non-traditional calf exercises that can immediately be used in strength programs for improving calf strength while also increasing ankle dorsiflexion mobility.

The use of exercise interventions to maximize athletes’ performance is a common practice in competitions. This systematic review aimed to compile research that explored the effectiveness of priming strategies to maximize physical performance in track and field. The literature search was conducted from PubMed and Scopus. One hundred eighty-two studies were assessed against the inclusion criteria: (a) minimum 1-year participation/competition experience; (b) randomized controlled trials with pre-post intervention outcomes; and (c) studies involving exercise interventions applied #6 hours before outcome measures were collected. Fifteen studies satisfied the criteria and were categorized according to the exercise interventions used (i.e., resistance training, plyometric/ ballistic training, resisted sprints, and modified warm-ups). Heavy-loaded resistance training (i.e., .85% 1 repetition maximum) and resisted sprints increased subsequent sprint performance. Plyometrics/ballistic training also positively impacted subsequent jumping (i.e., long jump) and throwing performance (i.e., shot put). Modified warm-ups (i.e., high-intensity sprints and heavier throwing implements) also improved subsequent running and throwing performance. Overall, exercise interventions performed at high intensity and low volume augment subsequent physical performance as close to 4 minutes before the event. However, a sufficient recovery interval must be considered for a positive performance response.

From the 2021 NSCA National Conference, Dr. Abbie Smith-Ryan discusses updated information, nutritional components, sex-specific considerations, and practical applications of high-intensity interval training.

The proper age-specific program may improve your teenager’s sports performance and reduce their risk of injuries.

Studies support the use of kettlebells for improving power, although evidence for using them to improve strength and aerobic fitness is still equivocal. Studies investigating the biomechanical properties of kettlebell training have been fruitful, and it may be useful for developing sprint running performance and for injury prevention.