Calendar Planning for Competition
Optimal competition calendar planning at all stages is critical to athlete development. At certain stages, developing the physical capacities take precedence over competition. At later stages, the ability to compete well becomes the focus. Table 3 outlines general recommendations for the ratio of training to competition and competition specific training. Consider how the quantity and quality of the training and competition program changes as long-term plans progress.
Table 3 Training to Competition Ratios
- Optimal sport specific competition ratios are required for all stages of LTAD.
- Level and length of the competitive season should be aligned with the changing needs of the developmental athlete progressing through LTAD.
- Over-competition and under-training at the Learn to Train and Train to Train stages result in a lack of basic skills and fitness.
- The appropriate level of competition is critical to the technical, tactical, and mental development at all stages.
- Schedules are often ‘set’ for team sports by leagues and organizations and not by the coach and athlete, making optimal training based on periodization difficult. For individual sports, individual competition schedules can be selected by the coach and athlete based on the athlete’s developmental needs.
- The current system of competition is based on tradition. It should be planned to enhance optimal training and performance of the athlete depending upon their LTAD stage.
- Competitions in Canada must be created and scheduled considering strategic planning and with due regard for the optimal performance of an athlete and the tapering and peaking requirements. Optimal training to competition ratios for individual sports vary greatly and must be determined on a sport specific basis.
- While international and national calendars are usually well integrated, a systematic competition review needs to be undertaken. This is one of the biggest challenges for team sports and a significant challenge for individual sports in LTAD design and implementation.
The system of competition makes or breaks athletes!