Maximizing Fitness During the AFL Season
AFL In-Season Conditioning is essential for staying fit during the AFL season and requires a strategic approach. Since most of your weekly running load happens on game day, AFL In-Season Conditioning helps balance training with recovery. Smart training ensures you maintain peak performance without overloading your body.
Strategic Running Sessions
If your body handles training well, consider adding 1-2K of extra running to your lighter session, typically earlier in the week. This gradual increase helps build endurance without the risk of injury. However, avoid sudden spikes in workload, as they can lead to fatigue and setbacks.
Improving Speed In-Season
Speed gains are possible even during the season. Aim to hit 90% or more of your max velocity at least once every fortnight. Tracking your sprint efforts using a GPS or smartwatch allows you to measure progress effectively. What gets measured improves!
Recovery and Fatigue Management
Active recovery is essential for sustaining performance. Light movement post-game, such as walking or water-based activities, supports recovery. By day two, introduce light jogging or skill work, followed by a strength session on day three. This structured approach helps optimize fatigue management.
Conditioning for Rookies vs. Veterans
Rookies benefit from structured plans that introduce different training methods, while veterans rely on experience to adjust their routines. Regardless of experience level, optimizing your weekly schedule ensures maximum fitness without compromising game-day performance.
This episode explores key topics for Australian Rules footballers and their in-season conditioning. We cover questions such as getting fitter and faster during the season, optimal conditioning prescriptions, managing fatigue, and the different approaches for rookies versus veterans. Tune in for insights and strategies to maximize your performance.
Highlights from the episode:
- Can You Get Fitter In-Season?
- Maximizing Speed and Efficiency
- Best Conditioning Prescriptions
- Managing Fatigue In-Season
- Training for Rookies vs. Veterans
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