I have been getting many requests to evaluate certain popular training programs. Rather than specifically evaluate any program I think it is better to describe the characteristics of a sound program and you can use this to evaluate and draw your own conclusions.
Progression – You should be able to see clear definitive progression both inter and inter workout. In addition the progression should take into account training age and gender.
Clearly Defined Goals – A sound program starts with the end in mind and clearly works toward that end.
Training is a means to an end – Training should not be an end unto itself.
Individual – A sound training program fits the individual and takes into account trainability and recoverability.
Beyond the Exercise – It is always more than an exercise or a drill. The drill or exercise is a means to an end.
Can Do – A sound program will focus on what the athlete can do, not what they can’t do. Optimize the strengths and minimize the weaknesses.
Risk – Manage risk by weighing the risk:return ratio of the training methods.
Variation – Incorporate programmed systematic variations to insure continual adaptation.
Spectrum – Incorporate a spectrum of methods that insure all systems are trained all the time.
Basics – Never stray far from the basics, no gimmicks, no fads and no quick fixes.
Paul Ford
Good work Vern.
I often wonder if the ‘popularity’ (ie. numbers doing) of some workout-schemes, commercial fitness-programs is more about efficiency (quick results) than effectiveness (quality results). Instant gratification vs
That said, many of these aren’t actually training…they’re simply a collection of workouts that get a little tougher with very little individualisation. Given this I’d add “plan” to your list. A good program follows the guidance and direction of a bigger (multi-year, yearly, macrocycle) plan, not simply aim to lift more, move faster, or do more each week or session.
Paul Ford