Well constructed post. If I had you use one word to describe my fall training it would have to be patience. Historically I’ve liked to start doing quality work relatively early in the fall and although I’ve had some individuals experience some success I’ve never had the prolonged success (a couple of good races then fizzle out) or the wide spread success (entire training group).
As result I looked over what I’ve done in the pass and challenged myself to look at things differently and make changes (smart changes not just for the sake of making changes).
For example; in regards to olympic progressions I did the following”
Freshman (some sophomores):
DB Muscle Complex (wk1-4)–> BB Muscle Complex I (wk5&6)–> BB Muscle Complex II(wk7&8)-> Full Olympics w/low to moderate loads (wk9–>)
Upperclassmen (some sophomores):
DB Muscle Complex (wk1&2)–> BB Muscle Complex I (wk3&4)–> BB Muscle Complex II(wk5&6)-> Full Olympics w/low to moderate loads (wk7-8)–>Full Olympics w/mod to “heavy” loads
What I enjoyed most about the DB & BB not only did teach and/or re-teach the athlete how to use the hips/leg extensors along with the various elements of the OLs but the uptempo continuous nature of these complexes built muscle in those that needed and metabolized fat in those that needed it.
In regards to speed development; I’ve generally introduced ins & outs at the beginning of SPP only to find that it became “white noise” later on. What I’m doing instead is spending a number of weeks doing sub max runs 50m in length to merely developed technique. Ins & outs will be introduced once the athlete is able to perform the technical skills I feel are necessary to be successful.
This is probably basic for a number of you smarter coaches, but for me, I can sometimes get stuck doing “what I’ve been doing”.
ANYWAYS….Great, very thought provoking, post.
RG
