Training to train; a continued emphasis on aerobic conditioning, a greater individualisation of fitness and technical training. Focusing on training rather than competing with the training predominantly of high volume, low intensity workloads. It is important to emphasise that high volume, low intensity training cannot be achieved in a limited time period, and therefore the time commitment to training should increase significantly. There will be specific target competitions undertaken throughout the season, which swimmers in this squad will be expected to compete in. Periodisation of training in the training year will be dictated by the Head Coach. Swimmers will continue to develop suppleness and strength, land training will include the use of ‘own body weight’ excercises, light dumbbell and Core Stability exercises. If insufficient time is devoted to this stage then it is highly unlikely the young swimmer will reach their full potential. One of the main reasons athletes plateau during the later stages of their careers is because of an over emphasis on competition instead of optimising training during this very important stage.
