Sports scientists have reported that there are critical periods in the life of a young person in which the effects of training can be maximised. They have also concluded that it can take anything from eight to twelve years of training for a talented athlete to achieve elite status. This has led to the development of athletic models, which identify appropriate training aims at each stage of the athlete’s physical development.

Model for LTAD:

Sports can be classified as early specialization (e.g. gymnastics) or late specialization (e.g. Track and Field, Team sports). Early specialization sports require a four phase model while a late specialization model requires six phases.

Early Specialization Model:

Training to train

Training to compete

Training to win

Retirement & retainment

Late Specialization Model:

FUNdamental

Learning to train

Training to train

Training to compete

Training to win

Retirement & retainment

Good Luck!

LambrosTjiapouras

Managing Director/Consultant

LTC Torque Fitness&Wellbeing™ Team!