Sports Science

The science of sport encompasses a number of areas:

• Sports Nutrition (see High Performance)
• Sports Psychology (see Sportsmind)
• Fitness (see Strength and Conditioning)
• Biomechanics (Technique Analysis)
• Skill Development (Motor Learning)
• Recovery from Exercise

Biomechanics

Land based sports require an efficient running technique. Analysis of running and sprint techniques can identify areas to improve along with potential areas of injury.

Body posture is important to minimise the risk of injury and in turn it enhances power and speed generated in all sporting actions. Strength training and core body work will also help with your biomechanics.

Are you identifying potential areas of weakness and developing a program to strengthen the body?
How can you improve your running action to reduce fatigue?

Fast Fact: Manchester United players over a 6-year period suffered an average of 1.8 injuries and lost 44 days of training per season.

Skill Development

Good coaching is essential in developing good technique. Holy Grail Fitness programs combine sport science with your skill development to produce a higher level of performance.

It is also important to continually challenge the body to be able to do more complex skills, however you need to ensure that you have the fitness and strength to do so.

To enhance skill development, visualisation skills are a valuable tool. This will not only decrease the learning time but also allows you to perform at a higher level. (See Sportsmind)

Fast Fact: Perfect practice makes perfect.

Recovery from Exercise

Upon completing a training session it is essential that you start recovery techniques immediately so to prepare yourself for the next session. Different techniques include:

• Post Exercise Nutrition
• Rehydration
• Stretching
• Massage
• Use of Ice
• Spas
• Sleep

How are you currently planning your recovery sessions?
What are the most effective forms of recovery for you to get the best out of your training?

Fast Fact: Dehydration is one the most common reasons athletes do not perform at their best yet with careful planning can be avoided.