Applying the Principles of Training (AQA GCSE Physical Education (PE))

Application of the Principles of Training

• The principles of training could be applied to the example of long-distance running

• The table below shows a section of a typical 12-week schedule for someone training to run a half marathon:

Half marathon training plan table

• This training is specific because it focuses on strength and endurance for long-distance running, as well as building cardiovascular fitness

• It includes progressive overload because the distance of the training-runs gradually increases throughout the weeks

• The different principles of overload must be considered when planning a training schedule to find the perfect balance for optimum improvement:

  • Too much overload too quickly can result in burnout or injury

  • Too little overload limits improvement

• It also has reversibility because stopping or slowing down the training would reverse the progress of the training causing muscles and cardiovascular fitness to weaken

• It avoids tedium by being varied, for example adding in extra activities like strength training, yoga and interval training between long, tedious and challenging runs