Training Overview
The LSRHS Track & Field teams use a holistic, progressive, and long term approach to the development of every student athlete. We implement a periodized training model for all student athletes based on their age, ability, and event area. As a combined program (Boys + Girls) we determine training groups by training age and ability rather than gender. This allows us to better utilize resources as well as provide a unique environment for members to improve their social and emotional development. We seek to educate and develop our student athlete's understanding of sound training principals and exercise habits so they can lead healthy and sustainable lives.

All training is based on proven and practical methods of exercise science and training theory. We emphasize periodization as well as a practical application of training modalities for their role not only in sports performance but overall health.

For a more in depth explanation of these concepts please see below!
Periodization Model Explained
General Preparation Period:
  1. The goal of the general preparation phase of training is to develop a well rounded and balanced base of athleticism from which to build improved performance.
  2. This is what is normally referred to as "base training" or "general conditioning" and often encompasses off-season, pre-season, as well as early-season training.
  3. Injury Prevention/Pre-habilitation (preventative maintenance) is a large emphasis during this phase of training
  4. Training during this phase is multi-faceted and is meant to develop well rounded athleticism and durability. Training will incorporate all types of skill acquisition such as: strength, flexibility, coordination, balance, stability, mobility, quickness, speed, agility, power, endurance, etc...

Specific Preparation Period:
  1. The goal of the specific preparation phase of training is to develop more functional and progressive training based on the specific demands of their event(s).
  2. This phase of training is often referred to "in-season" training and is meant to progressively challenge athletes to build the specific strength and skills necessary to improve performance.
  3. This constitutes the bulk of training throughout a season and is meant to challenge athletes to respond and adapt to increasingly specific stimuli.

Competition / Technical Period:
  1. The goal of the competition period is to apply skills and abilities gained during the season with increased technical/tactical knowledge to maximize personal performance.
  2. This phase is what is commonly referred to as "Peaking" and normally encompasses the last 3-4 weeks of a competitive season ("Championship" season)
  3. The emphasis on training during this phase is on maintenance of skills/abilities, recovery, and optimized performance.
Principle of Adaptation Explained
  1. Fitness Baseline is the current fitness level
  2. Fatigue/Stress is the immediate result of any training stimulus
  3. Recovery is dependent on many personal factors but usually occurs within 24-72 hours
  4. Adaptation/Supercompensation is the body's natural response to appropriate combination of stimulus + recovery
  5. DeTraining is the result of adequate recovery + inadequate training stimulus

TRAIN SMARTER NOT HARDER!
Principle of Overload Explained
  1. Training must be consistent
  2. Training must be progressive
  3. Inadequate recovery = inadequate results

Given normal circumstances and adequate recovery the body will adapt/respond to what it is repeatedly exposed to!