The BT Method

Now for the science, I'll try to keep this simple!

Training should be scientific - based on measured intensity and time, with progressive development of the relevant body systems over time.

Each element of the body's system should be trained for the specific event to be competed in (short, medium distance, power or aesthetics).

The aim is to produce the optimum effect with no wasted training time or effort.

In addition to developing general levels of all round mobility in a client/athlete, our coaches also need to consider the specific mobility requirements of a given event. The coach can analyse the technique of his/her event, identify which joint actions are involved and determine which need to be improved in terms of the range of movement. A thrower, for example, might require improvements in his/her shoulder and spine mobility. A hurdler might need to develop his/her hip mobility.

The amount and nature of the mobility training required by each client/athlete will vary according to the individual athlete's event requirements and his/her individual range of movement for each joint action. It may be necessary to measure the range of movement for particular joint actions to determine the present range and future improvement.

Specificity is an important principle in strength training, where the exercise must be specific to the type of strength required, and is therefore related to the particular demands of the event. The coach will have knowledge of the predominant types of muscular activity associated with his/her particular event, the movement pattern involved and the type of strength required. Although specificity is important, it is necessary in every schedule to include exercises of a general nature (e.g. power clean, squat). These do not relate too closely to the movement of any athletic event. They do, however, give a balanced development, and provide a strong base upon which highly specific exercise can be built.