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Outline ways in which technology assists coaches in improving the performance of athletes - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 26 - 2008 - Paper 1
Question 26
Outline ways in which technology assists coaches in improving the performance of athletes. Explain how tapering and peaking can be used to improve performance. Ana... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Outline ways in which technology assists coaches in improving the performance of athletes - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 26 - 2008 - Paper 1
Step 1
Outline ways in which technology assists coaches in improving the performance of athletes.
Answer
Technology plays a crucial role in enhancing athletic performance through various means:
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Performance Tracking: Advanced wearables like smartwatches and fitness trackers monitor athletes' physiological data, such as heart rate, distance, and calories burned, allowing coaches to analyze performance trends.
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Video Analysis: Coaches utilize video analysis software to break down athletes' movements, allowing for precise feedback on technique, which can lead to improved efficiency and reduced injury risk.
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Data Analytics: The use of statistical analysis helps in evaluating performance metrics, offering insights into areas that need improvement and tailoring training programs to individual athlete needs.
Step 2
Explain how tapering and peaking can be used to improve performance.
Answer
Tapering and peaking are strategic approaches used by athletes to maximize performance at critical times:
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Tapering: This involves reducing training volume while maintaining intensity to allow the body to recover fully before a competition. The physiological benefits include replenished energy stores and reduced fatigue, resulting in improved performance.
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Peaking: This refers to timing training and recovery cycles to ensure that an athlete is in optimal physical condition on the day of competition. It requires careful planning of training loads and rest periods, effectively allowing athletes to achieve their personal best when it matters the most.
Step 3
Analyse how an athlete can train for improved performance in terms of power and speed.
Answer
Improving power and speed in athletes involves a multi-faceted training approach:
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Power Training: Athletes can engage in strength training exercises, such as Olympic lifts (e.g., clean and jerk) and plyometrics, to develop explosive strength. These exercises enhance muscle fiber recruitment, improving overall power output.
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Speed Training: To increase speed, athletes can incorporate sprint intervals and resistance sprinting (e.g., using sleds or parachutes). These drills focus on accelerating and maintaining high speeds, crucial for competitive performance.
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Technique Improvement: Ensuring proper running technique is vital for maximizing speed. Drills focused on form, such as high knees and butt kicks, can enhance biomechanics.
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Interval Training: High-intensity interval training (HIIT) can also be beneficial. Short bursts of high effort followed by rest can improve both aerobic and anaerobic pathways, contributing to overall power and speed.
Through a combination of these strategies, athletes can systematically enhance their performance metrics in power and speed.