Why Off Season Matters: Mastering Workloads in Gymnastics

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In this episode, Dave introduces a new podcast format featuring co-host Alea as they tackle the science of workload management in gymnastics and injury prevention strategies. The pair examines groundbreaking research on training load spikes and why smart preparation matters more than ever.

• Tim Gabbet's research shows injury risk increases dramatically when workload spikes more than 50% in a week
• Injuries typically appear 1-2 weeks after workload spikes, making the connection hard to identify
• Gymnastics presents unique challenges with multiple events creating overlapping stress on similar body structures
• The "Floor to Ceiling" model illustrates how raising baseline fitness levels before preseason reduces injury risk
• Dave and colleagues developed a gymnastics-specific workload monitoring system combining time, perceived exertion, and intensity factors
• Their research tracking collegiate programs showed preseason has highest physical demands while postseason has greatest mental strain
• Summer preparation is crucial for building strength and conditioning before preseason begins
• Carefully managing plyometric progression before ramping up routine volume helps prevent overuse injuries
• Implement gradual progression from skills to parts to half-routines to full routines
• Plan training with strategic recovery periods (approximately three weeks on, one week reduced)

If you have topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes of this new format, please reach out and let us know!

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