Off-Season Training
Following on from our last post about the benefits of training through the off season, this week I will discuss the balance between rest and training during this time.
With all winter codes now finished it’s time to start organising your off-season. That may be a foreign concept for some of you, however it is the perfect time to work on your weaknesses and further improve your strengths.
Many athletes look forward to the off-season for either one of two reasons. It’s time to relax and enjoy some time off, or it’s time to put the hard work in to come back bigger, faster and stronger for the next season.
Personally, I like a combination of the two. Allowing your mind to have a break from your chosen sport(s) whilst catching up on the things you missed during the season is definitely something all athletes should experience, however the opportunity to improve over the off-season should not be taken for granted!
Structure your weeks so that you have time for family, friends and hobbies; but do not forget that there is ample opportunity to work hard. With no structured team training or games during the weekend, you can fit in more time for your physical preparation.
Talk to your coach and decide on what is most important for you to work on during the time you have available. Strength levels typically decline or stagnate during your in-season, as too does relative power levels. Set some goals for the off-season and let’s start working towards them now!
If you want your son to get a head start for next year, please feel free to get into contact with me at matthew@accelerationmelbourne.com.au or come down to the Mannix Campus Gym and have a chat about the benefits of training over the summer break. We are offering a free assessment and 20% off for all Salesian College Athletes.
