ترجمة

Showing posts with label Planning. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Planning. Show all posts

Wednesday, February 7, 2024

4:30 AM

How Aerobic Training Boosts Sprint Swimmers' Performance











Hey swimmers and coaches!

I've got an important topic to discuss today that could be a game-changer for sprint events - harnessing the power of aerobic work as most of the thoughts about the 50m races its only Anaerobic work.


I know sprinters and coaches usually focus on anaerobic power. However, research shows the aerobic system contributes 20-25% of the energy during those intense 20-second races like the 50 free (Medbø et al., 1988). This study reveals that during short bursts of intense exercise lasting 15-30 seconds, the aerobic system can make up a substantial 20-30% of the total energy production. Imagine the impact this could have on your sprint performance!


For elite sprinters doing 20-second sprints, the aerobic system still provides around 25% of their energy even when anaerobic metabolism dominates (Bangsbo et al., 1990). That shows the endurance capacity even in short explosive bursts. Elite sprinters were the focus of this research, which highlighted that even during 20-second sprints, where anaerobic metabolism usually dominates, the aerobic system still contributes around 25% of the total energy production. Endurance power in short, explosive efforts - a game-changer indeed!


The different energy systems intricately interact to fuel maximal efforts like sprinting (Gastin, 2001). So, coaches and swimmers, this means aerobic fitness is crucial for sprint dominance!


That extra 20-25% aerobic boost could be the difference between victory and defeat when races are decided by tenths and hundredths of seconds. Make sure sprint workouts incorporate aerobic development too.


The Takeaway:


For our young and enthusiastic swimmers, this means paying attention to your aerobic game is just as crucial as perfecting your strokes. The tiny percentages matter, especially in races decided by mere fractions of a second. Incorporating aerobic work into your training routine can be the secret sauce for conquering that back half of the race with resilience and speed.


Know that your sprint events will be affected If you ignore the aerobic work, and you'll crash in the back half of your race. The research has shown that 20 seconds of all-out effort, like the 50 free swims, the aerobic system contributes to 20% - 25% of the energy for that effort in a race that's always decided by hundreds of a seconds. That 25% is a substantial number."

 

Cheetham, M., Boobis, L., Brooks, S., & Williams, C. (1986). Human muscle metabolism during sprint running. Journal of Applied Physiology, 61(1), 54-60. https://doi.org/10.1152/jappl.1986.61.1.54

Dolan, P. and Sargeant, A. (1984). maximal short-term (anaerobic) power output following submaximal exercise. International Journal of Sports Medicine, 05(S 1), S133-S134. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-2008-1025977

Gastin, P. (2001). energy system interaction and relative contribution during maximal exercise. Sports Medicine, 31(10), 725-741. https://doi.org/10.2165/00007256-200131100-00003

McCutcheon, L., Geor, R., & Hinchcliff, K. (1999). Effects of prior exercise on muscle metabolism during sprint exercise in horses. Journal of Applied Physiology, 87(5), 1914-1922. https://doi.org/10.1152/jappl.1999.87.5.1914

Muscle metabolism during sprint running" (Bangsbo et al., 1990)



Friday, April 7, 2023

12:08 PM

The Effects of Detraining in Swimming II


Swimming demands physical fitness, skill, and mental fortitude, with athletes training for hours daily to better their performance. But what happens when they take a break from training? Detraining is the loss of previously attained adaptations due to decreased or no training (Mujika & Padilla, 2000). 

Commonly a four-week hiatus is allowed for top swimmers to go through detraining-related studies (Mujika & Padilla, 2000). Detraining can lead to a decrease in swimming performance, energetics and kinematics. 

A research study by Zacca et al. (2019) looked at 400-m front crawl performance related to four weeks of reduced training in age-group swimmers (14-15 years old). It was found that performance dropped by 3.8%, mainly as a result of decreased stroke rate, an uptick in peak blood lactate concentrations, and limited non-swimming specific physical activities during the off-season. The authors suggested that age group swimmers remain physically active while on their break time. Other studies have found similar results with elite male athletes with 200 yards freestyle time increasing by 3.6% after 4 weeks without training (Costill et al., 1985) and VO2 max declining by 8% after reducing training to just one session per week (Neufer et al., 1987). 

Even body composition can be impacted: Almeras et al.’s study revealed that elite female swimmers gained 4.8 kg of body weight and 4 kg of body fat after two months without any training period. This type of change may not be ideal for good swimming performance as increased fat can cause drag and effects the buoyancy in the water.

To summarize, detraining has negative impacts on swimming performance, energetics and kinematics and should be avoided or at least minimized whilst keeping some level of physical activity during off-season times.


References

- Almeras N., Lemieux S., Bouchard C., Tremblay A., Despres J.P., Theriault G., Allard C., Leblanc C., & J-P Thibault M.C. (1997). Impact of a 2-month swimming cessation on diet and body composition in elite female swimmers. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise , 29(5), S113.

- Costill D.L., Thomas R., Robergs R.A., Pascoe D., Lambert C., Barr S., & Fink W.J. (1985). Adaptations to swimming training: influence of training volume. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise , 17(3), 371-377.

- Mujika I., & Padilla S. (2000). Detraining: loss of training-induced physiological and performance adaptations. Part I: short term insufficient training stimulus. Sports Medicine , 30(2), 79-87.

- Neufer P.D., Costill D.L., Fielding R.A., Flynn M.G., & Kirwan J.P. (1987). Effect of reduced training on muscular strength and endurance in competitive swimmers. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise , 19(5), 486-490.

- Zacca R., Toubekis A., Freitas L., Silva A.F., Azevedo R., Vilas-Boas J.P., Pyne D.B., Castro F.A.D.S., & Fernandes R.J. (2019). Effects of detraining in age-group swimmers performance, energetics and kinematics. Journal of Sports Sciences , 37(13), 1490-1498.

 

Sunday, January 1, 2023

8:14 AM

Types of training periodization

   



What are the types of training periodization?

Periodization in swimming refers to the systematic planning and organization of training in order to optimize performance and minimize the risk of injury. This typically involves dividing the training year into specific periods or "blocks" with each block focusing on different aspects of training such as endurance, strength, power, or speed. The goal of periodization is to progressively increase the intensity and volume of training over time, while also allowing for periods of rest and recovery in order to allow the body to adapt to the increased demands being placed on it. Periodization can be used to plan training for both competitive and non-competitive swimmers and can be tailored to the specific needs and goals of the individual athlete. 

There are several types of periodization that can be used in swimming training, and dryland for swimming

Please keep in mind that this is a broad overview and that the specific details of how each type of periodization is implemented may vary depending on the needs and goals of the individual swimmer.

Linear periodization: linear periodization is a type of training approach that involves gradually increasing the intensity and volume of training over a specific period of time in a linear fashion. It is often used in strength and conditioning programs and can be applied to a variety of sports, including swimming. Linear periodization typically involves organizing training into distinct phases, each of which focuses on a specific goal or adaptation. This type of periodization can be an effective approach for improving physical fitness and performance in swimming. Still, it is important to note that it may not be the best approach for all athletes or all goals.

Undulating periodization: Involves fluctuations in training intensity and volume from one training session to the next. This type of periodization allows for a greater variety of training stimuli, which can be beneficial for experienced swimmers who may need more variety in their training to continue improving.


Block periodization: Involves dividing the training year into specific blocks, each with a specific focus (e.g. endurance, strength, speed). This type of periodization can be useful for targeting specific areas of improvement and for allowing for more intense training periods followed by periods of rest and recovery.

Conjugate periodization: Involves training different physical qualities (e.g. strength, speed) simultaneously, rather than focusing on one aspect at a time. This type of periodization can be a more advanced approach that requires careful planning and coordination.

Microcycle periodization: Involves dividing the training week into smaller units, such as daily workouts or even individual sessions. This type of periodization allows for more precise and frequent adjustments to be made to training intensity and volume, based on the swimmer's progress and recovery.

Mesocycle periodization: Involves dividing the training year into longer blocks, such as 4-6 week cycles. Each mesocycle may have a specific focus, such as endurance or strength, and may involve progressively increasing intensity and volume over the course of the cycle.

Macrocycle periodization: Involves dividing the training year into even longer blocks, such as an entire competitive season. The focus of each macrocycle may vary, depending on the specific goals and needs of the swimmer.

Functional periodization: Involves organizing training around specific functional movements or muscle groups, rather than focusing on specific physical qualities. The goal of this type of periodization is to improve overall movement efficiency and performance, rather than targeting specific muscle groups.

Reverse periodization: a training approach that involves starting with high-intensity training and gradually decreasing intensity over time. This is in contrast to traditional linear periodization, which involves starting with low intensity and gradually increasing intensity over time. Reverse periodization is often used with advanced or experienced athletes who may benefit from a more intense training stimulus in the early stages of their training cycle, followed by a period of reduced intensity and volume as they approach competition.


Non-linear periodization: Involves a more varied and unpredictable approach to training, with fluctuations in intensity and volume from one training session to the next. This can be useful for experienced swimmers who may benefit from a more diverse range of training stimuli.

Traditional periodization: Involves dividing the training year into distinct phases, such as a preparatory phase, a competitive phase, and a transition phase. Each phase may have a specific focus and may involve progressively increasing or decreasing intensity and volume.


Competitive periodization: Involves organizing training around specific competitions or events. The focus of training may shift based on the specific goals and needs of the swimmer leading up to the event.

Developmental periodization: Involves organizing training around the specific needs and goals of developing swimmers, such as those who are just starting out in the sport or who are still in the early stages of their careers. The focus of training may be on building a strong foundation of basic skills and techniques, rather than on peak performance.

Individualized periodization: Involves tailoring training to the specific needs and goals of the individual swimmer. This may involve a combination of different types of periodization and may be adjusted based on the swimmer's progress and recovery.

Cyclical periodization: Involves organizing training around specific cycles or phases, such as a preparatory phase, a competitive phase, and a transition phase.

Undulating linear periodization: Involves a combination of linear and undulating periodization, with fluctuations in intensity and volume from one training session to the next within a larger framework of gradually increasing intensity and volume over time.


Daily periodization: Involves organizing training around daily workouts or individual sessions, with the goal of optimizing performance and recovery on a day-to-day basis.

Triphasic periodization: Involves organizing training around three distinct phases, each with a specific focus on a different aspect of training (e.g. strength, power, speed). This type of periodization may involve a combination of different training methods and may be useful for targeting specific areas of improvement.

Priority periodization: Involves prioritizing certain aspects of training over others, based on the specific needs and goals of the swimmer. For example, a swimmer who is preparing for a long-distance event may prioritize endurance training over speed work.

52 weeks of training periodization for a world-class 400 m-IM with three distinctive major competitions.

Polarized periodization: Involves focusing on low-intensity and high-intensity training, with the goal of optimizing the benefits of both types of training. This type of periodization may be particularly useful for improving endurance performance in sports such as swimming.


it is important to note that the type of periodization that is best for a given swimmer will depend on their individual needs and goals, as well as their experience and training history. It is important to work with a coach or sports performance specialist to develop a training plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals.

 

Here are some references that may be helpful in learning more about the various types of periodization that can be used in swimming training:

I hope these references are helpful in learning more about the various types of periodization that can be used in swimming training.

Linear periodization:

Fleck, S. J., & Kraemer, W. J. (1987). Designing resistance training programs. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Zatsiorsky, V. M., & Kraemer, W. J. (2006). Science and practice of strength training. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Undulating periodization:

Rhea, M. R., Alvar, B. A., Burkett, L. N., & Ball, S. D. (2003). A comparison of linear and daily undulating periodized programs with equated volume and intensity for strength. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 17(1), 82-87.

Rhea, M. R., Alvar, B. A., Burkett, L. N., & Ball, S. D. (2004). A comparison of linear and daily undulating periodized programs with equated volume and intensity for local muscular endurance. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 18(2), 357-362.

Block periodization:

Issurin, V. (2010). Block periodization versus traditional training theory: A review. Journal of Sports Science and Medicine, 9, 7-17.

Issuing, V. (2018). New horizons for the method of blocked training. Sports Medicine, 48(3), 467-480.

Conjugate periodization:

Siff, M. C. (2004). Supertraining (6th ed.). Denver, CO: Supertraining Institute.

Zatsiorsky, V. M., & Kraemer, W. J. (2006). Science and practice of strength training. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Microcycle periodization:

Bompa, T. O., & Haff, G. G. (2009). Periodization: Theory and methodology of training (5th ed.). Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Zatsiorsky, V. M., & Kraemer, W. J. (2006). Science and practice of strength training. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Mesocycle periodization:

Bompa, T. O., & Haff, G. G. (2009). Periodization: Theory and methodology of training (5th ed.). Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Zatsiorsky, V. M., & Kraemer, W. J. (2006). Science and practice of strength training. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Macrocycle periodization:

Bompa, T. O., & Haff, G. G. (2009). Periodization: Theory and methodology of training (5th ed.). Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Zatsiorsky, V. M., & Kraemer, W. J. (2006). Science and practice of strength training. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Functional periodization:

Cook, G., Burton, L., & Hoogenboom, B. (2010). Functional periodization: The use of special strength training phases to optimize functional performance. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 24(10), 2857-2864.

Zatsiorsky, V. M., & Kraemer, W. J. (2006). Science and practice of strength training. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Reverse periodization:

Stone, M. H., O'Bryant, H. S., & Garhammer, J. (eds.) (1981). Weightlifting: A scientific approach. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Zatsiorsky, V. M., & Kraemer, W. J. (2006). Science and practice of strength training. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Non-linear periodization:

Bompa, T. O., & Haff, G. G. (2009). Periodization: Theory and methodology of training (5th ed.). Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Zatsiorsky, V. M., & Kraemer, W. J. (2006). Science and practice of strength training. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Traditional periodization:

Bompa, T. O., & Haff, G. G. (2009). Periodization: Theory and methodology of training (5th ed.). Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Zatsiorsky, V. M., & Kraemer, W. J. (2006). Science and practice of strength training. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Daily undulating periodization (DUP)

Rhea, M. R., Alvar, B. A., Burkett, L. N., & Ball, S. D. (2004). A comparison of linear and daily undulating periodized programs with equated volume and intensity for local muscular endurance. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 18(2), 357-362.

Rhea, M. R., Alvar, B. A., Burkett, L. N., & Ball, S. D. (2005). A comparison of linear and daily undulating periodized programs with equated volume and intensity for strength. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 19(3), 647-652.

Competitive periodization:

Bompa, T. O., & Haff, G. G. (2009). Periodization: Theory and methodology of training (5th ed.). Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Zatsiorsky, V. M., & Kraemer, W. J. (2006). Science and practice of strength training. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Developmental periodization:

Bompa, T. O., & Haff, G. G. (2009). Periodization: Theory and methodology of training (5th ed.). Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Zatsiorsky, V. M., & Kraemer, W. J. (2006). Science and practice of strength training. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Individualized periodization:

Bompa, T. O., & Haff, G. G. (2009). Periodization: Theory and methodology of training (5th ed.). Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Zatsiorsky, V. M., & Kraemer, W. J. (2006). Science and practice of strength training. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Cyclical periodization:

Bompa, T. O., & Haff, G. G. (2009). Periodization: Theory and methodology of training (5th ed.). Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Zatsiorsky, V. M., & Kraemer, W. J. (2006). Science and practice of strength training. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Undulating linear periodization:

Bompa, T. O., & Haff, G. G. (2009). Periodization: Theory and methodology of training (5th ed.). Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Zatsiorsky, V. M., & Kraemer, W. J. (2006). Science and practice of strength training. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Daily periodization:

Bompa, T. O., & Haff, G. G. (2009). Periodization: Theory and methodology of training (5th ed.). Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Zatsiorsky, V. M., & Kraemer, W. J. (2006). Science and practice of strength training. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Triphasic periodization:

Contreras, B., & Haff, G. G. (2016). Triphasic training: A systematic approach to elite strength and power development. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Contreras, B., & Haff, G. G. (2018). Triphasic training: A systematic approach to elite power development. Strength and Conditioning Journal, 40(5), 13-20.

Priority periodization:

Bompa, T. O., & Haff, G. G. (2009). Periodization: Theory and methodology of training (5th ed.). Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Zatsiorsky, V. M., & Kraemer, W. J. (2006). Science and practice of strength training. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Polarized periodization:

Seiler, S., & Hetlelid, K. J. (2015). Training intensity distribution in elite endurance athletes: Is there evidence for an "optimal" distribution? Sports Medicine, 45(2), 189-206.

Seiler, S., & Kjerland, G. O. (2006). Quantifying training intensity distribution in elite endurance athletes: Is there a "sweet spot"? Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports, 16(1), 49-56.

González-Ravé JM, Pyne DB, Del Castillo JA, González-Mohíno F, Stone MH. Training periodization for a world-class 400 meters individual medley swimmer. Biol Sport. 2022 Oct;39(4):883-888. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2022.109954. Epub 2021 Nov 10. PMID: 36247944; PMCID: PMC9536385.


Saturday, July 11, 2020

11:42 PM

RAISING A SUCCESSFUL KID IN SWIMMING



By: C.Moemen Arafa
Today we will discuss a few pieces of Advice for young children to be successful in swimming or any other sports. First of all, in my belief as a coach, the parents have More Control on their Kids more than us and with few tips that we will discuss in this article will help you to understand More About Sport, especially Swimming.
you need to know that building a successful Swimmer or an Athlete in Any Sport Takes time. so Accept that progress in any sport takes at least 7 -10 years after puberty in most sports for any athlete to achieve their full potential.

Tuesday, May 19, 2020

11:12 AM

The Effect of Detaining on Swimmers


After five months of intense training, a study of eight male swimmers was conducted within four weeks of no training. The performance time was not affected. However, the losses in training aspects during that period were:

  • Muscle glycogen decreased from 153 to 93 mm / kg;
  • High blood lactate level from 4.2 mm / l to 9.7 mm / l. After swimming 200 yards, 90% of the best time
After only one week, a decrease in the oxidative potential of swimmers' muscles and a greater disturbance of acid-base balance in the blood after swimming is observed. The study also showed that complete conditioning may be completely lost within six to eight weeks after stopping training. What has been gained from conditioning in 5 months can be lost in a period of 6 to 8 weeks, and factors of loss of adaptation appear in the first week to 4 weeks, which is a short period.

Friday, July 17, 2015

10:44 AM

UNPLANNED TRAINING EFFECT ON AGE GROUP SWIMMERS

First, I would like to highlight the problem of unplanned training (UPT) because it is increasingly becoming more prevalent on a global basis in many sports besides swimming. Many people, parents, and coaches are confused when we talk about it. But, analysis is showing that it is having more negative effects on our athletes, young children who are age group swimmers.

The link for the same article on the Swimming World Magazine

The article made by C.Moemen Arafa And edit By Steven V. Selthoffer, Swimming World’s Chief European Columnist

Unplanned Training Effects on Age Group Swimmers

By C. Moemen Arafa

Introduction: Understanding Unplanned Training in Youth Swimming

In today’s competitive youth sports environment, unplanned training (UPT) is becoming a significant issue for age group swimmers. Despite the best intentions, many parents and even coaches contribute to this problem, often unaware of the negative effects it can have on the young athlete's development. Unplanned training is not just a minor misstep but a widespread issue that can affect performance, physical development, and mental well-being. Understanding and addressing this problem is crucial for the long-term success of young swimmers.


What Exactly Is Unplanned Training?

Unplanned training happens when young swimmers are subjected to extra training sessions outside their regular practice schedule, without the knowledge or consent of their primary swim coach. This can take the form of additional swim practice or extra dryland training, often arranged by parents eager to see quicker progress. The idea of “more is better” is a common misconception, but in reality, these extra sessions can do more harm than good.

Why? Because young athletes already follow carefully designed training programs that take into account their physical development, recovery needs, and skill progression. Adding extra, unsupervised training throws this balance off, leading to overtraining and increased risk of injury.


The Damage Caused by Unplanned Training

Unplanned training creates a range of problems for young swimmers, but the root causes can typically be traced back to two sources:

1. Coaches Pushing for Quick Results: Some coaches, often driven by a desire to produce quick improvements, fail to implement a gradual, step-by-step approach in their training programs. Without a long-term vision, young athletes are pushed too hard, too soon.

2. Parental Pressure: Parents, eager for their children to succeed, may arrange for additional private training sessions outside the primary swim program. They often believe that more training will lead to faster results, but without proper coordination with the head coach, this extra training can be counterproductive.


The Ripple Effects of Unplanned Training

Parents and coaches should be aware that unplanned training impacts swimmers in several significant ways, affecting not only their physical health but also their mental state and long-term performance.

1. Physical Consequences:

Young athletes need adequate recovery time, typically between 24 to 48 hours, after intensive training. When additional unplanned training is added into the mix, the athlete’s muscles don't have time to properly recover. This leads to muscle damage, inefficient adaptation, and even increased levels of oxidative stress, which can harm muscle tissue and slow down recovery.

Oxidative stress, caused by an excess of free radicals (byproducts of normal metabolic processes), can damage cells and muscle tissues. Antioxidant-rich foods like berries, oranges, and mangoes can help combat this, but without adequate recovery time, the damage can accumulate.

2. Impact on Bone Development:

In young swimmers, especially those between the ages of 9 to 14, growth plates in their bones are still soft and developing. Heavy resistance or weight training without proper supervision can cause premature closure of these growth plates, potentially stunting growth and leading to long-term bone issues. Parents may believe that more strength training will make their children faster in the water, but improperly structured strength training can do the opposite.

3. Mental and Emotional Strain:

The mental toll of unplanned training can be just as damaging. Overtraining can lead to mental burnout, dulling the swimmer's motivation and enthusiasm for the sport. Conflicting coaching philosophies—where a swimmer is hearing different advice from their primary coach and their private trainer—can cause confusion and frustration. A young swimmer might struggle with which guidance to follow, leading to a lack of confidence during practices and competitions.


Technique Development and Unplanned Training

Proper technique is crucial for swimmers, but mastering technique takes time and patience. Swimmers need to first perfect their strokes at slower speeds before gradually introducing speed into their technique work. However, when unplanned training adds extra practice during critical phases like tapering (the rest phase before competitions), it can sabotage a swimmer’s performance by depleting their energy reserves.

During tapering, muscles need to store as much glycogen (muscle fuel) as possible to ensure peak performance in races. Unplanned, intense training during this time can burn through these glycogen reserves, leaving the swimmer tired and unable to perform at their best.


The Global Perspective: Why Unplanned Training Is a Widespread Issue

The problem of unplanned training is not limited to a specific region or country; it’s a global concern. Many swim coaches worldwide report similar challenges with parents or club management pushing for more training in the hopes of faster results. However, data shows that this approach rarely works. In fact, up to 80% of age-group swimming champions never make it to the senior level, much less become national or international champions. Early success doesn’t necessarily equate to long-term success.


Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) and Why It Matters

One solution to the problem of unplanned training is a clear understanding of Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD). LTAD is a framework that ensures young athletes are training, competing, and recovering in a way that supports their long-term athletic career, rather than focusing on short-term gains.

Scientific studies suggest that it takes about 10 years—or roughly 10,000 hours—of deliberate practice to reach an elite level in sports. There are no shortcuts. Proper development takes time, and it’s critical that young swimmers follow a structured, well-coordinated program. This ensures they are building the foundation they need to succeed, not just in their youth but throughout their athletic career.


Coordinating Private Training with the Primary Coach

Private training isn’t necessarily bad. In fact, it can be incredibly beneficial if it’s done in coordination with the primary coach. Communication is key. The head coach should be aware of all additional training sessions to ensure they fit into the swimmer's overall plan, balancing intensity, rest, and recovery.

When different coaches have different philosophies or when private sessions are conducted without the knowledge of the main coach, it can create confusion for the swimmer and disrupt their overall development. The solution is simple: collaboration and communication between all parties involved. 


Conclusion: Prioritizing Long-Term Success Over Quick Fixes

Unplanned training is a growing issue in youth sports, and its effects can be damaging both physically and mentally. Coaches, parents, and club management must recognize that long-term athlete development should always be the priority. Pushing for quick results through extra, unplanned training is a short-sighted approach that can lead to burnout, injury, and a loss of motivation in young swimmers.

Instead, focus on building a strong foundation with proper planning, communication, and an emphasis on gradual improvement. The true path to success in swimming isn’t a sprint; it’s a marathon that requires patience, discipline, and a long-term vision.


Key Points:

- Coaches should create structured, long-term development plans for young athletes.

- Parents must resist the urge to add extra training without consulting the primary coach.

- Communication between coaches and parents is crucial to prevent overtraining and burnout.

In the end, swimming champions are made through steady, focused development—not through shortcuts or unplanned training.