How to Improve “Flat Out Speed” in 30 Days Mike Akerson Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com Before I sprint into explaining this linear speed development program, it’s important to know that I am fortunate to work in a facility that provides nearly unlimited toys to keep our athletes entertained and reaching peak performance. I believe that using speed development equipment can assist a trainer by providing an entertainment value to keep athletes from getting bored and also as a means of experimentation to find the right mix of ingredients for goal achievement. The challenge is figuring out the art of cooking those ingredients perfectly for the gourmet meal; or in this case, the perfect performance. Whether your Shannon Sharpe, Denver Broncos tight end, and you swear by certain equipment or Terrell Davis, former NFL running back, who trained with no equipment and ran sprints up hill growing up, there are methods proven clinically by exercise physiologists and others anecdotally by applicators like me in the field that continue to garner positive results. Given the circumstances of this challenge; my company on its last leg, a $500 budget and one athlete to make or break my career; I initially thought – I would have to really screw up to get myself in this situation! I better use the $500 for diapers and baby formula – not to mention look for a new career! Getting back to reality, I realize that this athlete would have to be incredibly desperate or confident that I’m the guy to help him although I had lost almost everything. Whether motivated by desperation or a relentless desire for greatness, at least we had motivation to carry us to the next step – achieving a mutual trust (the key ingredient any athlete/coach relationship) in order for something magical to happen for the both of us. Fantasy Storyline For the purpose of measuring our goal of flat out speed, we’ll use the 40-yard dash as our measuring stick in which our athlete, Mr. Po Totential will shoot for his perfect performance. Let’s pretend that achieving 4.3 seconds is what will make or break Po’s career and my career as a performance coach. For the sake of this storyline, which needs to meet the criteria of an athlete with average ability and running mechanics, we’ll say he’s already within striking distance of achieving his goal. His time, 4.6 seconds in the 40-yard dash, is average ability by other NFL receiver standards. He has the “Potential” to run a 4.3 second 40 yard dash considering his mechanics are defined as average by our known facts. All I have to do is maximize his mechanics through perfect Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com motor programming, get the most out of every single muscle fiber in his body and create a mental giant that believes he can outrun a cheetah – no problem ☺ Our 26-year-old, 5-year veteran athlete, Po has lost a step and is battling to save his job considering his team just signed a receiver in the first round of this year’s draft. He’s been guaranteed to sign if he runs a 4.3 second 40-yard dash. To complicate matters, let’s also pretend that we are unable to contact his former strength coach for any information regarding past programs and measures. Whether an elite athlete as in this case, a high school athlete or a recreational athlete, I would use the same training principles but modify intensity and exercise progression in this precompetition phase program. One may consider adding agility and change of direction (COD) training to develop the complete athlete; however, in this case we will focus on improving only linear speed. Equipment Considerations A tool I use for variable resistance that’s very low cost are resistance bands. One product is Resist-a-bands from Perform Better. I’ll buy a 6yard box of light, medium, heavy for a total of $27.00. If things don’t work out, I could use them to hang myself ☺ For heavy resistance training specific to maximum strength, I’ll need dumbbells if nothing else. I could buy them at $.40 per pound. A set of 10lb dumbbells and a set of 50lb dumbbells for about $50 + $25 shipping would be enough. Any variation needing more or less weight while loading the athlete, I could assist or resist the load manually. However, on total body power moves it’s highly dangerous to do that. To get the dumbbells shipped and transport them in my car would take too much time and effort. Being resourceful and because it was not pointed out that we couldn’t use our equipment budget for gym usage, I will join a gym with my athlete and pay for one month. I’ll train with him and carry my own liability insurance in case anything happens. Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com Resist-a-Bands = $27.00 1 month gym membership for two = $75 (Or if I lived in the woods with no gym around) 50lb and 10lb dumbbell sets = $75 Equipment Costs = $102.00 Remaining Balance = $398.00 (to be invested later in the athlete) My Linear Speed Training Philosophy High or heavy resistance training (HR) has been shown to improve the initial acceleration phase of sprinting (Delecluse et al 1995) by increasing fast twitch muscle fiber strength. This type of training increases the maximum force of muscle contraction, one factor in measuring power (force x velocity) (Sheppard 2003). Examples of exercises would be heavy (3-5 reps x 85% or greater loads) 1 leg squats, 1 leg RDL’s, 1 leg snatches, lunges and step-ups. I train all athletes unilaterally considering it’s a functional reality of human movement. These types of unilateral pushing exercises with a natural rotation also accentuate the Serape Effect (the way the right internal obliques, left external obliques, left serratus anterior and left rhomboids all work together and criss-cross with their counterparts on the other side of the body) to recruit the external obliques and the serratus anterior (Holt 2002). Compound maximal strength exercises are essential to speed development considering nearly all 600 muscles of the human body are firing during sprinting. With only 30 days prior to testing, I do not recommend any type of hypertrophy training through single joint exercises; rather, get the most out of what the athlete already has. Other methods and terms I use are defined as reactive neuromuscular training (RNT), high velocity (HV) training and elastic equivalent training (EET). Basically, these methods at some point during their application require lighter loads moved at higher rates of velocity to increase the rate of force production. I use linear RNT in the beginning of every speed workout with bodyweight only, moving as quickly as possible. RNT utilizes the stretch-shortening cycle to enhance neuromuscular efficiency, rate of force production, and reduced neuromuscular inhibition (Clark 2001.) It heightens the excitability of Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com the nervous system, which improves performance (Voight 1992). I prefer bodyweight only to work on sprinting mechanics nearly every morning session. It’s important to point out that the terms RNT, HV training, plyometrics and power training can all mean the same thing. By definition they all have the same goal – increase the rate of force production; the single most important factor in speed development. Elastic equivalent training combines a strength exercise with a biomechanically comparable reactive exercise (Clark 2001). It specifically enhances neuromuscular efficiency and power production. EET is a National Academy of Sports Medicine term while the National Strength and Conditioning Association calls it “complex training” (Chu 1996). Whatever term you use to describe it, its how you apply it that’s key to eliciting an improvement in speed. This type of training is highly intensive and requires excellent mental focus. I employ EET methods after one week of evaluating athletes so I can assure the athlete possesses the correct biomechanics to perform a sprint specific type drill immediately following a heavy resistance exercise without them. I’ve heard some professionals in our field call the use of heavy resistance bands for speed development as a gimmick to sell equipment. It is factual that loading with resistance bands specifically increases ground contact time during their application, if you compare to sprinting without this type of loading (Bompa 2003). However, I believe that this method emphasizes maximum strength of fast twitch muscle fibers specific to starting or take off power. Furthermore, I believe that if you classify heavy resisted sprints as a strength exercise and follow that immediately with bodyweight RNT, you are performing an example of EET! Furthermore, I agree with Mike Clark, President of NASM, who suggests, “exposing individuals to training programs that utilize the entire contraction velocity spectrum. Applied exercise physiologists or performance coaches like myself are seeing success with these methods in the field on a regular basis. In my program, I use HV training by way of dumbbell-loaded resistance, variable resistance bands or bodyweight loading. For HV, we’ll do some of the same compound weightlifting exercises performed as the HR exercise but use less weight, or resist-a-bands. I’ll also implement exercises for repetitive force production with stability such as bodyweight one leg squats as fast as possible immediately following the Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com same exercise with resistance. Some of these moves are what I call “sprint specific”. The intent is to simulate specific joint angles related to starting position and acceleration as rapidly as possible. I classify field/stadium HV Drills into two categories: 40 Start Drills and Acceleration/Top Speed Drills. Smaller angles of ankle flexion, knee flexion and hip flexion emphasize starting or take off power with greater strength demands are required to move upwards and forwards. Movements with greater angles of ankle flexion, knee flexion and hip flexion beginning in an upright, staggered stance should be used for acceleration and top speed training. Training at a field with a stadium allows me to use the stadium steps for RNT or variable HV training. Not to mention, stair sprints forces dorsi flexion of the ankle repeatedly. An element that is more difficult to teach on flat ground. Rationale for Additional Expert Analysis Now more than ever, there are experienced specialists that assist in athletic performance and rehabilitation. I’d be a fool to disregard the clinical and anecdotal analysis of the world’s leading experts. Whether they are a physical therapist or a successful track coach or track athlete, I’ve been fortunate to make some great contacts and use their experience as resources when I want confirmation or additional information regarding program design. Since this is what has made me successful in my career, I feel it valuable to invest some of my equipment budget in some local colleagues. This shows the athletes that I have their best interest in mind and that I realize the importance of surrounding myself with successful people. In the fantasy storyline with our athlete Po, we learned that we were unable to contact his former strength coach for any information. Therefore, we have to gather data related to Po’s current status that will serve as our baseline. With these facts, I can focus on any weaknesses in an attempt to do some last minute tweaking. I’ve found many athletes to suffer from weak supporting muscles because many programs are designed in one plane of movement. Seeing this often, I suggest strengthening the adductors/abductors through unilateral training to help the ankles, knees and hips in the support phase of sprinting. Foam mats, balance boards or other unstable surfaces are great for add/abd muscle Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com contractions. I’ve even found sand sprints to also fire those muscles up! Tudor Bompa (renowned exercise physiologist) points out, instability increases ground contact time which decreases maximum speed (Bompa 2003) I agree! However, I believe that by using unstable surfaces, the stabilizer muscles contract more forcefully developing maximal strength, which will in turn assist the primary movers when the surface is stable, and help decrease ground contact time. Again, I encourage using unstable and stable surfaces to combine neuromuscular efficiency as a means of enhancing speed. Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com 30-Day Pre-Competition Mesocycle (5 Week Summated Microcyles) Week 1 (Days 1-7) Session Mon 1 Tues 2 Wed 3 Thur 4 Fri 5 Sat 6 Sun 7 Morning Speed RNT + BW Pool RNT + HV Lower Pool Off (9:00am) Testing Acceleration Recovery Starting Recovery Drills Drills Afternoon HR Upper HR Lower Ice Bath HV Upper RNT + BW Ice Bath Passive (4:00pm) Acceleration Stretch Drills Week 2 (Days 8-14) Session Mon 8 Tues 9 Wed 10 Thur11 Fri 12 Sat 13 Sun 14 Morning RNT + RNT + BW Pool RNT + RNT + BW Pool Off (9:00am) Starting Acceleration Recovery Starting Acceleration Recovery Drills Drills Drills Drills Afternoon HR Upper HR Lower + Ice Bath HV Upper HV Lower Ice Passive (4:00pm) + EET EET Bath Stretch Week 3 (Days 15-21) Session Mon 15 Tues 16 Wed 17 Thur1 Fri 19 Sat 20 Sun 8 21 Morning Midway RNT + BW Pool RNT + RNT + BW Pool Off (9:00am) 40 Goal Acceleration Recovery Start Acceleration Recovery Assessment Drills Drills Drills Afternoon HR Upper + HV Lower Ice Bath HV HR Lower + Ice Bath Passive (4:00pm) EET Upper EET Stretch Week 4 (Days 22-28) Session Mon 22 Tues23 Wed 24 Thur25 Fri 26 Sat 27 **Sun28 Morning RNT + RNT + BW Pool RNT + BW RNT + BW Active Dynamic (9:00am) Starting Acceleration Recovery Acceleration Only Stretch Warm Drills Drills Drills Starting Up Only Drills Afternoon HR Upper *MR/HV + Ice Bath HV Lower Unload Passive Passive (4:00pm) + EET EET Lower or Off Stretch Stretch Week 5 (Days 29–30) Session Mon 29 Tues30 Morning Dynamic Test! (9:00am) Warm up Only Afternoon Passive Sign Pro (4:00pm) Stretch Contract! Note: Each morning workout includes dynamic warm up and active isolated stretching. Post workout recovery is passive stretching followed by ice, ice bath or contrast bath. Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com * MR/HV + EET Lower = Medium Resistance with High Velocity followed by bodyweight elastic equivalent. This is the first example of tapering the resistance as we progress to bodyweight only resistance by Thursday. Exercise Selection HR Upper Body (80-90% RM) = 4 sets x 3-5 reps alternating continuously ∗ Warm up with dynamic stretching for upper body and 50% 1RM 1 set x 10 reps. Increase ROM, increase circulation and lubricate joints. Neutral Grip (Palms In) DB Bench Press Perform on bench or stability ball for extra core work. Alternate presses continuously to simulate arm drive. Bent Over, Neutral Grip, Staggered Stance DB Rows Perform with legs in track start position. Load front leg with 70% of bodyweight and rear leg with 30% of bodyweight. Keep core contracted and spine in neutral position. Alternate DB rows to simulate arm drive. Neutral Grip, Staggered Stance 1 Arm DB Power Cleans Great exercise for explosive take off. Perform from the floor for total body power. Neutral Grip, Staggered Stance 1 Arm DB Snatches Great exercise for explosive take off. Perform from the floor for total body power. Specific EET Example following HR Upper Exercise Arm Drive Only Sprint in Staggered Stance Complete heavy resistance upper body exercise and immediately perform arm drive as fast as possible for 4.3 seconds (the time goal of the athlete’s 40-yard dash.) Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com Heavy Core Training Exercises Staggered Stance DB Wood Chops Transverse plane movement performed standing. Heavy loads are very risky for trunk. Rotate and elevate DB from hip to opposite shoulder. Keep feet in staggered stance. Elevated Reverse Crunches with DB Best performed from the Roman Chair. Hang with DB between feet. Perform hip flexion and contract abdominals as you lift your legs. Supine Bicycle Kicks with Heavy Variable Resistance Bands Lie on back. As you perform bicycle kicks or press outs with your legs, pull the heavy resistance bands with your hands or feet horizontally twisting to increase the load to your core. DB Loaded Reverse Hyperextensions Fix upper body horizontally. Place DB right below your knees. Perform reverse hyperextensions for low back and hip extension strength. HV Upper Body (30-45% RM or variable resistance with light to medium bands) ∗ Exercises will be timed for continuous repetitions until 4.3 seconds (our 40 yard dash goal). Perform as fast and controlled as possible. Sprint specific relaxed neck and facial muscles. Neutral Grip (Palms In) DB Bench Press Perform on bench or stability ball for extra core work. Alternate presses continuously to simulate arm drive. ∗ If you have access to adjustable cable column machine or Free Motion Chest Press, perform staggered stance, alternating neutral grip chest press. Keep elbow at 90-120’ of flexion. This would be a more sprint specific posture for arm drive. Resistance Band Arm Drive (Push Specific) Load the athlete’s hands with light to medium resistance bands from behind the athlete diagonally to the ground. Keep elbow at 90-120’ of flexion and perform arm drive. Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com ∗ For take off or starting speed (first 10-15 yards), have athlete perform this with an exaggerated forward lean. Bent Over, Neutral Grip, Staggered Stance DB Rows Perform with legs in track start position. Load front leg with 70% of bodyweight and rear leg with 30% of bodyweight. Keep core contracted and spine in neutral position. Alternate DB rows to simulate arm drive. ∗ May also use adjustable cable column machine or Free Motion Adjustable Arm Machine for staggered stance, alternating neutral grip rows. ∗ Free Motion Adjustable Arms also allow push/pull exercise to combine chest press, deltoid front raise and upper back row. Use neutral grip. Shorten ROM by keeping elbow at 90’-120’ flexion to simulate sprinting arm drive. Resistance Band Arm Drive (Pull Specific) Load the athlete’s hands with light to medium resistance bands from in front of the athlete diagonally upwards. Keep elbow at 90-120’ of flexion and perform arm drive. ∗ For take off or drive phase (first 10-15 yards), have athlete perform this with a forward lean. Neutral Grip, Staggered Stance 1 Arm DB Power Cleans Perform from the floor with greater forward lean for drive phase (first 1015 yards). Perform from the hang for acceleration and top speed achievement greater than 15 yards ∗ Remember, elite athletes are still accelerating through 40 yards but less experienced athletes may reach top speed earlier when sprinting. HV Core Training Exercises (4 sets x 4.3 seconds) Staggered Stance Resistance Band Wood Chops Transverse plane movement performed standing. Load beside and below athlete’s hip for eccentric core contractions, followed by beside and above shoulders for concentric core contractions. Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com Elevated, Alternating Leg Reverse Crunches with Variable Resistance Bands Best performed from the Roman Chair. Wrap individual band around feet and load below athlete. Perform alternating hip flexion and contract abdominals as fast as possible. Supine Bicycle Kicks with Light Resistance Bands Lie on back. As you perform bicycle kicks or press outs with your legs, pull the light resistance bands with your hands horizontally twisting to increase the load to your core. Next set, wrap resistance bands individually around each foot for hip flexion and reverse crunch. Light Variable Resistance Band Reverse Hyperextensions Fix upper body horizontally. Place light resistance bands around each foot. Perform alternating leg reverse hyperextensions for low back and hip extension. ∗ Each one of these high velocity core exercises involves the rectus femoris (hip flexor) and performs diagonal contraction of the abdominals, obliques and chest/shoulder complex. My goal again is to accentuate the Serape Effect through push/pull rotation. HR Lower Body (80-90% RM) = 4 sets x 3-5 reps unilateral loading DB 1 Leg 70’ Squats Stand on 1 leg holding heavy DBs. Non-supported leg moves behind you as support leg flexes at ankle, knee and hip. Return to full extension before dipping again. Simulates flexion/extension of ankle, knee, hip at both swing and support phase of sprinting. DB 1 Leg RDLs Stand on 1 leg holding heavy DBs. Non-supported leg moves behind you as bend at the waist with slight flexion at the knee of supporting leg. Simulates dynamic hamstring stretch, low back and hip extension in swing phase of sprinting when returning to upright position. DB Step Ups / 1 Leg RDL Combo Step up on box that will elevate your knee to your hip (sprint specific biomechanics). Drive non-support leg up with ankle, knee and hip flexion. Immediately bend at the waist while lowering non-support leg Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com behind the body stretching support leg hamstrings. Use hip extension to return upright and step off box. DB Long Stride Lunges Step forward and lower body assuring ankle, knee and hip flexion. The long stride will stretch the glutes on the loaded leg and challenge the low back erectors and hip extensors forcefully when returning to upright position. It will also stretch the rectus femoris (hip flexor) of the nonloaded leg. Specific EET Examples following HR Lower Exercise Single Leg Squats With Anterior Reach Keep arms specific to sprinting biomechanics as you perform single leg squat as fast as possible for 4.3 seconds. Can be used following any of the HR lower exercises. Single Leg Bounds Start from track stance and explode outward and upward on same leg. Use sprint specific arm drive and perform for 4.3 seconds. Split Squat Jumps Start from staggered track stance and explode upward, moving forward leg to back and vice versa with arm drive as fast as possible for 4.3 seconds. HV Lower Body Weight Training (30-45% RM) ∗ Exercises will be timed for continuous repetitions until 4.3 seconds (our 40 yard dash goal). Perform as fast and controlled as possible. Sprint specific relaxed neck and facial muscles. DB 1 Leg 70’ Squats Stand on 1 leg holding lighter DBs. Non-supported leg moves behind you as support leg flexes at ankle, knee and hip. Return to full extension before dipping again. Simulates flexion/extension of ankle, knee, hip at both swing and support phase of sprinting. Perform as fast and controlled as possible with anterior reach. Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com DB 1 Leg RDLs Stand on 1 leg holding lighter DBs. Non-supported leg moves behind you as bend at the waist with slight flexion at the knee of supporting leg. Simulates dynamic hamstring stretch, low back and hip extension in swing phase of sprinting when returning to upright position. Perform as fast and controlled as possible. DB Step Ups / 1 Leg RDL Combo Step up on box that will elevate your knee to your hip (sprint specific biomechanics). Drive non-support leg up with ankle, knee and hip flexion. Immediately bend at the waist while lowering non-support leg behind the body stretching support leg hamstrings. Use hip extension to return upright and step off box. Perform as fast and controlled as possible. DB Long Stride Lunges Step forward and lower body assuring ankle, knee and hip flexion. The long stride will stretch the glutes on the loaded leg and challenge the low back erectors and hip extensors forcefully when returning to upright position. It will also stretch the rectus femoris (hip flexor) of the nonloaded leg. Perform as fast and controlled as possible. Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com Field/Stadium Specific “Starting Drills” and “Acceleration Drills” (Bodyweight or variable resistance bands - refer to microcyle) ∗ Exercises will be timed for continuous repetitions until 4.3 seconds (our 40 yard dash goal). Perform as fast and controlled as possible. Sprint specific relaxed neck and facial muscles. ∗ Perform 4 sets. Set 1 with resistance for maximal force contraction, 1 without resistance for RNT and 2 sets EET (With resistance band for 4.3 seconds and then immediately without x 4.3 seconds.) Field / Stadium Starting Drills Single Leg Bounds Start isometrically loaded from track stance and explode outward and upward on same leg. Use sprint specific arm drive. Double or Triple Stadium Stair Sprints from Iso-Loaded Track Stance Start isometrically loaded from track stance and sprint up stadium steps skipping either 1 or 2 steps per stride. Maintain dorsi flexion of ankle. Bodyweight or resisted 10-15 yard sprints Start from track stance and explode outward and upward. Use sprint specific arm drive. Vary starting position for fun such as: on butt, on belly or on back. Repeat, repeat, repeat for acceleration. Field / Stadium Acceleration Drills Jog, Sprint 10 yard Repeats Repeat 10-yard jog and 10-yard sprint for 4 cycles, 3 sets. Armless Jog, Sprint 10 yard Repeats Repeat 10-yard jog and 10-yard sprint for 4 cycles, 3 sets. Drill takes away arm drive (hold arms overhead) and puts in back in for assistance. Intent is to force legs to work harder. 15 yard Flying Start 10-yard sprint Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com Works on Phase 2 of our 40-yard dash program. Emphasize proper mechanics and mental focus during this drill. Perform 3 sets timed of 10yard sprint following 15-yard 75% effort flying start. 25 yard Flying Start 15-yard sprint Works on Phase 3 of our 40-yard dash program. Emphasize continued acceleration through finish. Perform 3 sets timed of 15-yard sprint following 25-yard gradual acceleration flying start. 10 yard Flying Start 1 Leg Bounds Jog for 1st time yards and begin bounding on 1 leg with 15-30’ knee/hip flexion for 15 yards. Maintain sprint specific arm drive. Drill forces explosive hip extension. Perform 3 sets. Single Stair Sprints Can be performed with our without arm drive to add intensity to legs. (4 sets x 4.3 seconds) Acceleration Combos ∗ Vary the drills to increase intensity. Example 1: Jog 10 yards, perform single leg bounds for 10 yards and accelerate with 15-yard sprint finish. Example 2: Sprint 10 yards from standing start, take away arm drive for 15 yards and add back arm drive for final 15 yards. Recovery Training Methods ∗ Wednesday and Saturday are active recovery days. ∗ Sundays are complete rest with the athlete performing his own passive stretching. Pool Dynamic Warm Up Using the water as light resistance, our goal is to increase circulation to the muscles drawing nutrient rich blood in to enhance muscle repair. The drills are the same as listed under Baseline Testing Section that includes dynamic flexibility and linear RNT for speed mechanics Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com development. RNT is performed half speed for recovery at 50-65% of maximum heart rate. Active Stretching and Passive Stretching Active stretching is defined as the process of using agonists and synergists to dynamically move the joint into a range of motion (Clark 2001). Following our morning dynamic warm up, we have athlete perform active isolated stretching under our guidance to compliment motorneuron excitability. For example, after performing B Skip, we’ll have the athlete performing a straight-leg raise stretch using the quadriceps and hip flexors to stretch the hamstrings (Clark 2001). Passive Stretching is defined as the ability to sustain a static stretch with bodyweight, limb support, or external apparatuses such as a chair or bar. This type of stretching is great post workout because it relaxes athletes, as they don’t have to exert any effort in the stretch. Research has demonstrated that this type of static stretching prior to activity decreases motor unit recruitment and the rate of force production (Nelson et al 1998 & Shilling, B., Stone, M. 2000). I do not use this method during a workout only as a means of recovery post workout or on recovery specific days. Unloading Day When an athlete is feeling tired, sore or not mentally focused, we sometimes throw in basketball or another active game in the place of the typical training schedule. With this 30-day program, it is imperative to vary the intensity of the workouts so the athlete will not feel like they need this unloading day often. Ice, Cold Bath or Contrast Bath Cold applied to muscle tissue following workouts reduces swelling, muscle spasms and decreases the flow of waste products associated with muscle and collagen breakdown. Making sure an athlete has no contraindications to cryotherapy, we recommend 20 minutes of ice or 3 minutes of immersion in 50-60’F cold water. A contrast bath is another modality used in physical therapy where a patient, or in this case athlete, does 5 minutes heat, 3 minutes cold immersion, 5 minutes heat Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com and 3 minutes cold. Always finish on cold. Research is limited on contrast baths and cold immersion. A general review of cryotherapy can be found (Kerschan-Schindl et al 1998). Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com Day 1 Detail - Building Trust The single most important day of our program will begin with a weigh in at a grocery store and breakfast meeting at 7:00 am so I can thank my athlete, Po Tential, for taking a chance on me. Our meeting goal is to define the master plan that will manage Po’s drive towards speed. Manage is the key word. An effective coach manages much more than the training an athlete performs for a couple hours twice a day. There’s nutrition, recovery and work or family related stressors that also impact an athlete’s performance each day. My interview process to understand the complexities of Po’s typical day will seem like a workout in itself. My goal is to develop a mutual trust and partnership in the journey we take together. It’s a partnership that includes much sacrifice but has even greater rewards if we both stay focused. Peter Coe, father and trainer of Sebastian Coe (one of the greatest middle distance runners of all time) finely wrote, “The best coach-athlete relationships are those in which each can tune in to each other with the greatest success.” (Martin & Coe 1991). A coach must know when to turn it up, ease back or give an athlete a day off to prevent overtraining. A sampling of my initial interview questions… 1) Why have you chosen me to help you reach your goals? Is there anyone else to support US in this process? What obstacles do you foresee? 2) What are your expectations for the next 30 days? 3) What have you done in the past that has got you this far? 4) What’s your favorite dinner food? (You get the point!) Remember answer to #4 for Day 28 Dinner. Breakfast bill = $18.50 Remaining balance = $363.50 Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com Baseline Testing Begins Test Weigh in at the local grocery store before our breakfast. Purpose Whether or not to decrease body mass for our general nutrition strategy. F = ma (Force = mass x acceleration) force/mass) a=F/m (acceleration = • How Po accelerates will depend on the force he creates driving his legs through the ground to propel him forward in relation to his body weight. Excess bodyfat will only slow us down. Unless my athlete is 5% bodyfat and doesn’t require losing anymore, I feel 4-6 lbs is reasonable to lose in 30 days. Having performed thousands of body composition assessments, I can use my trained eye to gauge whether Po needs to lose any extra weight. For this scenario, we’ll say Po meets the requirement to lose 4-6lbs of bodyfat gradually over the next 30 days. We’ll weigh in before and after each workout twice per day. I’ll need to make sure Po stays well hydrated and rehydrates after each intense workout that results in body water loss. For every lb of body water lost during the workout, Po will consume 16 ounces of 75% water diluted Gatorade to aid in electrolyte replacement. He’ll pay for the Gatorade! I also recommend that all athletes take a multi-vitamin. • Po will keep a food journal that I will provide so I can calculate calorie intake and projected expenditure. $1.69 for the journal. The information – priceless. I’ll take Po (as I do with nearly all my elite athletes) to the grocery store to teach him how to read food labels and select low fat, low sugar foods. For the type of training we’ll perform, I suggest 30% of calories come from protein sources, 50-60% from carbohydrates, and 10-20% come from fat. Total calories and the percentages of nutrients may be adjusted according to how Po feels, and whether we are increasing his power. Having only 4-6lbs to lose of unwanted body weight in 30 days will require great feedback from the athlete and coach to determine if it is gradual and muscle sparing weight loss. It is highly unlikely an Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com athlete’s body can stay in an anabolic state during this type of training. However, research has shown that taking BCAA’s following a workout can reduce muscle damage and increase synthesis under certain conditions. Furthermore, when a hypocaloric diet (for fat loss) is added to the equation, there is additional support for BCAA’s building muscle mass and enhancing recovery (Mourier et al 1997) (Lemon & Mullin 1980). If the athlete has the money, they should consider BCAA’s. Food Journal Bill = $1.69 Remaining Balance = $360.81 Day 1 (Morning Session 9:00am) Po and I are off to our local physical therapy clinic to confirm he is healthy and to get another professional opinion by an expert in human movement. Specifically, I’ll pay $200 for a 1-hour gait analysis and a muscle balance test on the Cybex Linea. This data will measure strength balance in the lower extremity muscles, identify ROM deficits and/or joint instability. We need this information to determine exercise intensity progression. This determines whether the athlete has proper biomechanics for intense speed training methods such as EET. • Muscle balance tests can be performed traditionally by using adjustable cable column with ankle strap for hip flexion/extension, leg extension, leg curl, low back extension and toe lift machine at local gym. Gait Analysis/Muscle Balance Test Bill = $200 Remaining Balance = $160.81 Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com Day 1 (Morning Session continued at local high school field with stadium steps) Athletic Ability Component(s) Identified Dynamic Warm Up Neuromuscular Flexibility, Running Form, Stride Length and Frequency, Conditioning, Coach Ability Dynamic Flexibility Drills (2 sets x 10 yards each) Lunge and Trunk Twist - Looking for long stride, neutral spine and ankle/knee/hip stability. (Quick and controlled as possible) Lateral lunge - Looking for adductor flexibility and abductor power and stability. (Quick and controlled as possible) Crossover Lunge - Looking for IT Band/glute flexibility and power. (One leg over the other, foot in neutral position and squat) ∗ Although we are training Po for linear speed, we must ensure the surrounding synergist muscles and stabilizers are powerful enough to assist the major movers involved in hip flexion and extension through the swing and support phase of sprinting. Weak abductors and adductors will decrease performance and could cause injury to our athlete. Step Back RDL’s - Looking for hamstring and rectus femoris flexibility. (Performed on single leg) A – Skip - Emphasize rapid (AKH) ankle, knee and hip flexion. B – Skip - Emphasize rapid AKH flexion followed by knee extension. (Skipping with alt. knee extension) Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com ∗ A and B Skip dynamically stretch the calves and Achilles tendon and are more RNT type drills. Linear RNT Drills for speed mechanics development (3-4 sets x 15 yards) Walk 4, High Knees 4,6,8 - Emphasize rapid (AKH) ankle, knee, hip flexion with great arm drive. (Walk 4 steps, high knees 4, 6 or 8 steps) (pocket to chin) (RNT principle) Single Leg Cycles (R and L Leg) - Emphasize rapid arm drive and AKH flexion (Walk 4 steps, rapidly turnover 1 leg only) (RNT principle) Single Leg Drag Cycles (R & L Leg) - Emphasize arm drive and rapid AKH flexion and extension to propel body horizontally. (Keep one leg in knee and hip extension and dragging off metatarsals, while other leg repeatedly cycles as fast as possible) (RNT principle) Additional Baseline Testing Broad Jump – Single Leg from start stance - Take Off Power (Measure both legs to check power balance. Perform 3 trials.) Turnover 10 Dash - Double & Single Leg - Neuromuscular Recruitment / Stride Rate (One touch every yard mark on field. Alt leg touches on double leg test. Simulate drag cycle on single leg test. Perform 3 trials.) Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com Starting Stance Assessment - Lower body static flexibility ∗ Ankle flexibility is crucial in creating great force application for take off (Bompa 2003). Running stairs or hills increases ankle dorsi flexion, which in turn increases force application (Vescovi & Brown 2003). ∗ Refer to my 40-yard dash analysis. 15-yard dash - Take off Power Middle 10 (15 yard flying start) - Stride / Acceleration / Focus Final 15 (25 yard flying start) - Acceleration near Top Speed Finish * Perform 3 trials of each test. ∗ By timing these three distances, my colleagues and I have found you can help an athlete breakdown the fear of achieving a perfect 40. It helps you quantify positive results to your athlete at three phases instead of an all-or-none 40-yard dash result. Add up the three segments to get a projected 40 and use the data to determine which phase, you’ll need to focus on. That’s where you as the coach has to modify the training emphasis to elicit specific adaptation for force development or rate of force production. 40 yard dash - The Measuring Stick of Speed (Wait until Day 15 to test at max effort.) ∗ Just in case your athlete is incorrect in judging his 40 time in the interview, why shoot him down the first day? I prefer not to give an athlete a sense of failure within the first two weeks of beginning a new program. Show them success! You will get an idea of the athlete’s 40 time by the sum of the three phases (15, middle 10 and final 15) during the other baseline testing. Focus on those key areas until you are either confident you can show the athlete success or the athlete Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com can handle the truth because he believes that he’s making progress and believes in his coach. Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com My 40-Yard Dash Analysis Start Position and Take-Off Key Points 1. Index finger and thumb on starting line of right handed or left handed athlete. Shoulder should be directly over hand. Upon start, fire arm back as if pulling the grass out of the ground. 2. Front leg (generally left leg for right handed athletes and right leg for left handed athletes) between 4-12 inches back from starting line. This varies according to leg length and flexibility in trunk and legs (generally taller athletes line up further back). Athlete should be able to keep a neutral spine position (ready for attack) with scapula retraction (shoulder blades back). 3. Athlete is low enough to create good force angles between ankle/shin, knee and hip/trunk. We look for 120’ angle or better in knee flexion. Too high will result in a less explosive start. 4. Opposite arm is at 120’ of flexion with hands loose just off the side of your greater trochanter (end of your femur where it attaches to hip). 5. Back leg is generally between 12-18’ behind front leg and no wider than hip width. Again – this may vary with taller, inflexible athletes. 6. In this position, athlete feels like they are about to fall forward with little weight resting on front hand on starting line. 7. Take a deep breath, count 1-2 and take off on 3. Exhale and explode with maximum force shooting out of a box (straight ahead and drive.) Drive Phase (1st 10-15 yards) 1. We measure the first 15 as our drive phase. 2. Having a solid take-off with the correct angle of knee flexion upon the start helps the athlete maintain a forward lean as he drives through the ground. 3. This phase has the greatest dorsiflexion of the ankle/shin as it pushes through the ground to create the force forward. 4. Maintaining neutral spine at this position will also have the athlete still looking downward. 5. Arm drive should swing from pocket to chin with a 90-120’ of elbow flexion. Loose hands too. Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com Acceleration Phase II (15-25 yards) 1. We measure the middle ten yards as a means of identifying an area where athletes sometimes lose concentration or bear down too much. 2. We teach positive self-talk at this phase (“Drive my arms and relax – no problem.”) 3. Watch for athlete with jaw clenched, neck straining, etc. Cue him or her to loosen up by touching the tongue to the roof of the mouth. Acceleration Phase III (25-40 yards) 1. We measure the final 15 yards as our third component in timing. 2. This is where we can identify issues with stride length or frequency in regards to flexibility of legs and force production. 3. Teach athlete to accelerate through race as if they are running a 60. 4. Elite athletes will accelerate throughout. Others may reach top speed earlier. Most Common Issues Short stride Possible Causes: Tight rectus femoris/ biceps femoris or low force production. Over-stride Running with plantar flexion Feet hit each other while accelerating Tight IT Bands causing ext rotation of hips or weak adductors and abductors Slow Turnover Needs RNT (reactive neuromuscular training). Coach arm drive. Zig Zag Start Pushing laterally off drive leg. Jaw and neck clenched, Stiff upper body Over–exerting (Trying too hard) Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com Day 2 – Day 14 Refer to weekly microcycles and follow exercise selection lists that give detail on sets, reps and/or time-based training. Day 15 Midway Goal Assessment After dynamic warm up, have athlete perform 1 set of each of the following drills: 1. 15 yard dash 2. Middle 10 (15 yard flying start) 4. Final 15 (25 yard flying start) Test 40-yard dash twice. Give all positive feedback first. Give correctivecoaching feedback next. Record time results and evaluate trying program success thus far. Determine if anything needs to change or if athlete is on schedule for test day goal achievement. Remainder of workout, focus on starting drills. Day 16 – Day 22 Refer to weekly microcycles. Follow exercise selection list for HR or HV exercises specific to morning or afternoon workout. Day 23 Begin tapering intensity and resistance. Medium resistance (60-80% 1RM) x 3-5 reps in place of heavy resistance lower body exercises. Decrease volume of sets to 2 per each resistance exercise but still follow medium resistance with EET exercise. Day 24 Recovery Day. Refer to microcycle. Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com Day 25 High velocity lower body weight lifting exercises in place of typical HV upper body. Rationale is to allow ample time for upper body to rest prior to test day and allow for additional activity demands to be specific to the last loaded lower body day. Day 26-29 Bodyweight only drills with improving the rate of force production as entire training emphasis. Two days prior to event (Day 28) surprise athlete with a recovery massage from Sports Medicine Neuromuscular Massage Expert. Also, take athlete out to dinner and enjoy a carbohydrate rich meal. Devise plans for testing and encourage mental visualization for athlete’s perfect performance. Encourage the athlete to get enough sleep (8 hours per night) leading up to test day. Remind athlete not to overload stomach with food or fluids on test day. Day 28 Massage = $100 Day 28 Dinner = $60.81 Remaining Balance = $0.00 Day 30 Have athlete perform dynamic warm up (1 set per drill prior to testing). If at all possible, be there to support your athlete! The Proverbial Question – How did Po perform? Po-fect! Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com REFERENCES Bompa, Tudor. Gimmicks vs. Reality. NSCA National Convention, Indianapolis, July 17, 2003. Chu, D.A. Explosive Power and Strength. Champaign, IL Human Kinetics, 1996. Clark, M. Integrated Training for the New Millennium. National Academy of Sports Medicine. 4, 15, 273, 274, 367, 374. 2001. Delecluse, C. Influence of strength training on sprint performance. Sports Med. 24(3): 148-156. 1997. Delecluse, C., H. Van Copenolle, E. Willems, M. Van Leemputte, R. Diels, and M. Goris. Influence of high-resistance and high-velocity training on sprint performance. Med Sci. Sports Exerc. 1:1203-1209. 1995. Holt, S. 3-4-5 Total Body Strength System. Retrieved 8/16/03 from http://www.fitnessworld.com/info/info_pages/library/strength/function 0902.html Kerschan-Schindl K, Uher EM, Zauner-Dungl A, Fialka-Moser V. Cold and cryotherapy. A review of the literature on general principles and practical applications. Acta Med Austriaca. 1998;25(3):73-8. Lemon, PW, Mullin JP. Effect of Initial Muscle Glycogen Levels on Protein Catabolism During Exercise. J Appl Phys. Apr. 48(4):624-629. 1980. Martin, D., Coe, P. Training Distance Runners. Champaign, IL. Leisure Press. xv-xvii. 1991. Mourier A., Bigard, AX, de Kerviler E, Roger B, Legrand H, Guezennec CY. Combined Effects of Caloric Restriction and Branched Chain Amino Acid Supplementation on Body Composition and Exercise Performance in Elite Wrestlers. Int J Sports Med. Jan. 18(1):47-55. 1997. Nelson, A.G., J. D. Allen, A. Cornwell, J. Kokkonen: Inhibition of Maximum Torque Production by Acute Stretching is Joint-Angle Specific. Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com 26th Annual Meeting of the Southeastern Chapter of ACSM, Destin, FL Jan 1998) Shilling B.K., M.H. Stone: Stretching: Acute Effects on Strength and Power Performance. J. NSCA. 22(1): 44-47. 2000. Sheppard, J. Strength and conditioning execise selection in speed development. NSCA J.. Volume 25(4): 26-30. 2003. Vescovi, JD., Brown, TD. Actions of major muscle groups during sprinting. NSCA National Convention, Indianapolis. July 17, 2003. Voight, M. Static Shortening: An introduction to plyometrics. Orthop Phys Ther Clin North Am 1-2: 243-252. WB Saunders, Philadelphia, 1992. Weyland, P., Sternlight, D., Bellizzi, M., and Wright, S. Faster top running speeds are achieved with greater ground forces not more rapid leg movements. J Appl Physiol. 89:1991-1999, 2000. Young, W. Training for speed/strength: Heavy vs. light loads. NSCA J. 15(5):34-42. 1993. Young, W., B. Benton, G. Duthie, and J. Pryor. Resistance training for short sprints and maximum-speed sprints. NSCA J. 23(2):7-13. 2001. Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com Mike Akerson, MS, CSCS* D, HFI NSCA North Florida Director Training Services Team Leader / Head Trainer, RDV Sportsplex First a teenage bodybuilder and a member of the United States Weightlifting Federation, Mike Akerson made a name for himself by being a champion, scholar athlete in high school. Following his passion for performance training, Mike went on to compete in numerous powerlifting and bodybuilding competitions while at Florida State University earning his bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Fitness. Mike Akerson began his coaching career as a graduate assistant strength and conditioning coach at Florida State University. While assisting with the dynasty football program, Akerson worked with the most successful defensive ends in FSU history. After finishing his Master’s Degree at FSU and earning nationally recognized credentials as a strength and conditioning specialist, Akerson began The Sport Specific Training Program at RDV Sportsplex in October 1998 with a handful of athletes. Equally as impressive as his client roster of NFL, MLB, NBA, and various other athletes is Akerson’s dedication to the performance industry by speaking at NSCA and ACSM clinics and conferences on training athletes and the general population. Mike is currently serving as North Florida Director for NSCA and Head Trainer at RDV Sportsplex. Mike oversees 25 full-time trainers in this 365,000 square foot, world class training center. Mike’s favorite quote is “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” He believes that you should always do your best to prepare yourself in all your endeavors so that you can be the recipient of good fortune when given the opportunity. Mike is married to Shannon Akerson, an elementary school teacher, and they have one daughter, Ellie. Mike spends all his time at RDV Sportsplex (his version of Disneyland) and with his family in Orlando, Florida. Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com To learn more about Mike and RDV Sportsplex, check out www.rdvsportsplex.com/sportspecifictraining or email Mike at [email protected]. Copyright 2004 http://www.SpeedExperts.com For more great programs, check out http://SportSpecific.com
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