In the competitive world of field sports, a well-structured strength training program can assist athletes aiming to elevate their on-field performance. Kicking, cutting and sprinting require high levels of strength and power with research showing that strength training can improve these qualities while also reducing the risk of injury.
Here are some tips when looking to integrate strength training into your field training routine:
TIMING WITHIN YOUR SCHEDULE
The type and timing of your strength training is an important consideration to ensure you don’t show up to your field training fatigued. For example, a full body session may be best done in the middle of the week if you play on the weekend. In season, one strength session per week can be enough to maintain gains developed during the off and pre-season.
CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS
Strength training can be safe and effective for youth athletes and is an important part of long-term athlete development. Programs for these athletes will firstly focus on the fundamentals of movement, technique and efficiency before progressing volume and intensity.
INDIVIDUALISED PROGRAMS
Your strength program should be tailored to your individual goals, sport-specific demands, training schedule, position and level of fitness. Ideally your program should be developed in collaboration with a sports medicine professional with knowledge in this area (exercise physiologist, sport physiotherapist, certified strength and conditioning coach). If you would like to discuss further, please make an appointment with Paul Robinson (Exercise Physiologist) or Jess Norton (Senior Physiotherapist with special interest in sports).
Author: Jessica Norton