The most common phrase in Performance Based Training today is every athlete wants to be bigger, faster, and stronger. The true question is how does one accomplish such a goal. An athlete only becomes bigger, faster, and stronger with a multi-faceted approach. Athletes need proper nutrition, mechanics, and strength training to achieve this result.
The first step is to take a look at your nutritional protocol. If you don’t have the right fuel in your system, it really doesn’t matter what your training protocol looks like. This is usually the most overlooked aspect of strength training. You have to calculate out where your caloric intake should be for what you are trying to accomplish. Things that should be considered are sex, height, weight, bodyfat composition, training protocol and intensity. There are many other variables that can come into play with nutrition such as where on the glycemic ratio carbohydrates fall and the protein and carb ratio per time slot.
The second phase of this process involves evaluating running mechanics, change of direction, and mobility issues. Coaches want athletes to perform faster on the field, however most do not take the time to teach the things that will help that process. It doesn’t make a lot of sense to continue running the same drills over and over again. You have to correct the technique and mechanics. Injuries and lack of flexibility can affect this process as well. Most coaches overlook the importance of foam rolling and stretching. The problem is that this is one of the best ways to get faster athletes.
The last part of the process is the stronger side of things. This can be attacked from a variety of ways. Each sport and athlete will vary based on position and the duration of intensity. Some position athletes require more brute strength and short bursts of intensity, while others may require more endurance based training. For instance, a quarterback and defensive line guy should not be doing the same workout. Each position requires different muscles and mechanics to perform at a high level. The same analogy can be applied to a sprinter and a long distance runner.
In order to have athletes that are bigger, faster, and stronger, it requires a multi-faceted approach. Nutrition, mechanics, flexibility, recovery, and strength training are all vital pieces of the puzzle. An athlete who neglects any of these areas will be unsuccessful. If you are looking to become an elite athlete, reach out to Xcellerated Speed Training, we can help.