This is championship season in indoor track and short course swimming so I have been thinking about peaking and tapering. Here are some thoughts on peaking, taper and getting ready for the big competition. This is not heavy on science but leans more on my experience and observations of coaching who have done this well over the years. It directed toward track & field and swimming but the ideas apply equally as well to all other sports.
“Sometimes in the peaking process is not what you do it what you don’t do.” John Larralde, track coach speaking at GAIN on preparing his milers to win California State High School championships.
What you do NOW is an accumulation of what has been done before
Don’t aim to maintain- stabilize
Females must stay strong- Strength training must be there, it does not take much
This is all about racing your race- the times will drop if you race
Race simulation is crucial- get them comfortable with their race plan
Technique and coordination must be stressed throughout
Touch on all components in the CONTEXT of the RACE PLAN
If in doubt DOBT don’t do it. One less rep or set is better than one more
Leave them wanting more
Strength Training- Recycle through areas that make them feel good- connected, coordinated and synced
In this phase the science of coaching takes a back seat to art and feel for what you are doing
Clearly communicate the message that the preparation has been done. Get them looking forward to Racing and Competing!
Easy Fast
Focus on distribution of effort
More of the same, rather different- Just disguise it
All preparration is about being Race Ready & Race Hardened
Reinforce what got there- “Dance the last dance with who brought you to the dance”