The individual training session is the cornerstone of the
entire training plan. The individual training session is the point of
implementation of the long-term plan. A long-term plan is a succession of
linked individual training sessions in pursuit of specific objectives.
The training session should occupy the greatest emphasis in
planning and execution.
Each session should be carefully evaluated and subsequent
sessions adjusted accordingly.
Each training session should a have general theme.
This general theme in turn should be supported by objectives
for each component in that session; those should be very specific and
measurable.
When planning an individual training session carefully
consider:
How
does that session fit into the bigger picture?
What
time is available for training & recovery?
Every component in the workout
must be in pursuit of the specific objectives of the workout and follow the
general theme for that particular session.
The workout must be put in the context of the whole training
plan.
The actual design of the session should carefully consider:
Progression /Sequence
Training time available & time
allocation
Integration of skill with work to
develop physical capacities
Size of the facility or training
area relative to the number of athletes training
Equipment available
Coaching personnel available as
well as the number of athletes that will participate in the actual training
session.
Session emphasis
Teaching
Training
Stabilizing
Testing
Remedial Component – Make sure that there is always an injury prevention
component in each workout; this is most easily addressed in the warm-up.
Intra Workout Recovery – Consideration needs to be given on how to incorporate
recovery given the constraints of most situations. Self-massage, shaking and
stretching as well as intra workout nutrition in the form of hydration is the
most basic and practical form of recovery intra workout recovery.
Team or Group Training – When training a group, carefully plan to meet individual
needs in a group context. Everyone will not progress and learn at the same
rate.
Multiple Workouts – This allows the workout to be even more
focused and shorter in duration. Multiple sessions are a necessity for the
elite athlete.