title: A framework for understanding the training process leading to elite performance.
abstract: The development of performance in competition is achieved through a training process that is designed to induce automation of motor skills and enhance structural and metabolic functions. Training also promotes self-confidence and a tolerance for higher training levels and competition. In general, there are two broad categories of athletes that perform at the highest level: (i) the genetically talented (the thoroughbred); and (ii) those with a highly developed work ethic (the workhorse) with a system of training guiding their effort. The dynamics of training involve the manipulation of the training load through the variables: intensity, duration and frequency. In addition, sport activities are a combination of strength, speed and endurance executed in a coordinated and efficient manner with the development of sport-specific characteristics. Short- and long-term planning (periodisation) requires alternating periods of training load with recovery for avoiding excessive fatigue that may lead to overtraining. Overtraining is long-lasting performance incompetence due to an imbalance of training load, competition, non-training stressors and recovery. Furthermore, annual plans are normally constructed in macro-, meso- and microcycles around the competitive phases with the objective of improving performance for a peak at a predetermined time. Finally, at competition time, optimal performance requires a healthy body, and integration of not only the physiological elements but also the psychological, technical and tactical components.
authors.affiliation: Human Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2N 2N4. djsmith@ucalgary.ca
authors.forename: David J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Smith
mesh_terms: D001823:Body Composition; D006339:Heart Rate; D006801:Humans; D010101:Oxygen Consumption; D010806:Physical Education and Training; D010807:Physical Endurance / Q000502:physiology; D010809:Physical Fitness; D012420:Running / Q000502:physiology; D013177:Sports / Q000502:physiology*; D013550:Swimming / Q000502:physiology; D013647:Task Performance and Analysis