When I meet with athletes for the first time many of them come in with goals that include getting bigger, faster, stronger, more explosive, etc. Intention is always really good, but the roadmap to achieve all of this has to have some logical sequence. For over a decade I have used the Vermeil Hierarchy of Athletic Development to help systematize an approach to athletic development. Slight modifications have been made to address the current context of the Science Over Training System.
Evaluation/Testing
📊 What Gets Measured, Gets Managed! 📊
When it comes to middle school athletes, our goal is to build an outstanding foundation that will amplify their results in the years to come. It’s surprising how many athletes only start structured training in the tenth grade, requiring 12 weeks just to learn perfect execution. Imagine if they had started in 7th grade! 🏋️♂️
For high school athletes aiming to improve athletic performance, strength training is a means to an end. Our program supports their ability to run fast and jump high, and our evaluations reflect that. We track key metrics like the countermovement jump, isometric mid-thigh pull, and 10-yard sprint time to monitor progress. These methods are not only aligned with athletic performance but are also extremely safe. 🏃♂️🏃♀️
Tracking sets, weights, and reps is essential for understanding barbell strength development. However, chasing arbitrary numbers can lead to injuries. We use a combination of predicted one-rep max percentages, training history, bar velocity, and subjective observation to determine proper loading parameters. This approach has proven to be very effective. ✅
Evaluating skeletal muscle mass is crucial, especially during the in-season period. Many athletes aim to increase body weight quickly to compete at a position-specific body weight. Monitoring this throughout the season is key to success. 🏋️♂️
As we collect more data from training logs, we can identify strength imbalances and tailor individual programs to address them. For instance, many high school athletes excel in horizontal pressing but struggle with full-range overhead movements or chin-ups. Addressing these imbalances can prevent injuries and enhance overall performance. 💪
These insights highlight the importance of a comprehensive testing and evaluation process. Working hard is the standard, but driving that hard work in the right direction is a different ball game. Sustainable progress requires the right road map. 🗺️
Stay tuned for our next post where we dive into work capacity and hypertrophy! If you’re looking for a structured program, visit us at our new training space at 63 Unquowa Road in downtown Fairfield, CT. We offer strength & conditioning for athletes in grades 7-12 in the afternoon, and an amazing women’s strength training program called strong(her) in the morning hours.
Fill out a contact form on our website at www.scienceovertradition.com to learn more! #StrengthTraining
#AthleticPerformance #YouthAthletes #FairfieldCT #ScienceOverTradition
