My third day of placement has been busy and even more exciting than the previous ones. It started at 8.30 am at the gym office, where Josh, Shannon and I adjusted the programme to every swimmer’s needs before leading the session in the afternoon. It was interesting to discuss with Josh how the exercise selection varies depending on the training phase and upcoming competitions and how it always aligns with the specificity of the sport. Some of the athletes had an easy week (regeneration week) before an important national competition happening the following week, while others had a heavier week with a specific focus on upper body strength towards the end of the week. We discussed also some potential additional exercises for people lacking mobility after having noticed that in a few people during my first day of placement. I, therefore, understood the importance of having a plan of periodized training beforehand but also the importance of adapting the programme depending on the week, on how the athletes feel, and new things may be noticed as a coach during the sessions, which may need to be addressed in the short term. After programming, we headed to the swimming pool, where I had the chance to assist to Josh’s meeting with the swimming technical coaches about two different groups of swimmers. The meeting was meant to discuss further training programmes and making sure that the gym programmes were well balanced with the pool training. It was extremely interesting hearing how many technical details and considerations have to be taken into account when planning some of the athletes’ programmes preparing for the Olympic trials. I’ve also understood the importance of regular and effective communication with the technical coaches as an S&C coach to make sure that the athletes get the best chances to improve performance in their sport. Before starting the session with the swimmers, I had the chance to chat with a few observers from team GB who came in to watch the session and seemed to like my enthusiasm and approach to the programme and asked me what it was about. I was pleased to tell them about it and chat about the content of the session they were unfamiliar with. It was a nice way to expand my network and get to know even more people in this sector.
You seem to be learning alot from your placement which is brilliant, glad your enjoying it – Kim.
great use of photos, seems to be an interesting placement with a lot to learn
Good to see your taking in a lot of new information, it looks a like a placement which you will gain a lot from.
Your placement seems very jam packed and busy! It’s good to hear that you were able to have had the opportunity to meet lots of new people and expand your network! Well done.