Planning speed training sessions

The trainers at PURSUIT are very experienced in conducting speed, agility,
and quickness (SAQ) training sessions. We train athletes in a variety of
different sports - in an age range between eight years and adult - however,
the basic format for all our training sessions are very similar.
The sessions obviously begin with a thorough warm-up. With the younger
athletes (eight to 12 years old), we perform more balance and coordination
type activities along with education on the reasons for warming-up.
With the older athletes, the focus shifts to increasing the body temperature
and heart rate in a progressive manner. This is typically achieved using
dynamic stretching and, similar to the younger athletes, balance and
coordination activities.
After the warm-up stage (10 to 15 minutes), the focus shifts toward running
form exercises. The mental focus of the athletes is typically at the highest
after a fun and energetic warm-up. Good running form, correct posture, and
heightened body awareness are the foundation to improved SAQ performance.
Naturally the running form exercises need to be worked on first and
constantly reinforced.
After the running form exercises, the session then branches off to the main
area of focus for the session. Like any other training program, the SAQ
sessions are periodized (planned). Therefore each session, or series of
sessions, has a predetermined goal. This goal maybe acceleration, lateral
movement, turning at speed etc.
We try not to accomplish too much in one session, nor should you. Our
sessions always finish with a review and a cool-down, including a static
stretching routine (especially for the older athletes).

PURSUIT offers individual, small group, and team SAQ training programs. The
PURSUIT Training and Rehabilitation Clinic located inside the Cloverdale
Athletic Park, providing complete sport conditioning and physiotherapy
services. Contact Craig Dalrymple at 604-574-2895 or
pursuittraining@telus.net.

Craig Dalrymple

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