TRAINING
PROGRAM
There is general agreement among sport scientists that early
event specialization is not beneficial. The general philosophy
of Junior Development (athletes 9 - 15 years of age) supports
a program that teaches a wide range of skills and promotes
improved general fitness, agility, balance, flexibility and
coordination. Club athletes are introduced to a complete range
of track and field events and are encouraged to participate
in cross country running. Athletes above the age of thirteen,
on the advice of coaches, may train for a narrower range of
events. For best results NorWesters follows the periodized
approach to program development over a one year cycle. However,
although the NorWesters training program operates year round,
specialized shorter term programs are often implemented. As
an example, we encourage athletes in other sports to join
NorWesters for our cross-country season to develop a strong
fitness and strength base that can be transferred to their
sport. High School athletes only interested in competing during
the spring season can participate in our High School program.
The objective of any of our programs is to encourage as many
athletes to try the sport of track and field whether it is
for a short or long term. We are convinced that the joys experienced
in the short term programs will result in many athletes committing
to the annual programs. |
