Global Insights and Individual Nuances
Any time spent researching successful sprint programs around the globe will reveal subtle differences in philosophies and methodologies.
There is no one ‘holy grail’ in terms of methodology (although the more successful methods obviously share commonalities).
Visiting coaches attending the ALTIS ACP, for example, may expect to see the exact same methods used between each of our coaching staff to produce the outcomes they recognize. Instead, coaches soon realize that each of us have individual instructional nuances which are implemented to achieve the desired result.
This nuanced use of variation in personal methodologies is possible through having first attained a deep understanding of technical necessities, biomotor requisites, and a clear vision of the desired outcome.
However, crucially, they also share some key commonalities: It is our experience, for example, that very broadly speaking, leading sprint groups utilize density patterns ranging as follows:
-
Acceleration sessions: 1-3 times weekly
-
Speed sessions: 1-2 times weekly
-
Speed endurance / Special endurance sessions: 1-2 times weekly.
As with most menu items, time of year, purpose of session, methodology nuances, athlete health, environmental factors, stimulation-adaptation readiness etc., are all are in play for determination of said density patterns within the micro, meso, and macro-cycle.
Your Take Home
Sound methodologies leave clues - whatever the sport, and extend beyond training athletes — they are about developing a foundation of knowledge, fostering innovation, and building effective practices for the future.
If you’re curious to learn more on how you can upgrade your own coaching methodologies, I recommend you explore Derek Eveley’s excellent Modules on Planning, Periodization, Methodology, Loading, and related fields in the Foundation Course. You won’t find a better resource on these topics.
Until next week,