Health & Fitness Program n°1  – M. Franck Deshais July 22

Muscular strength: methods of strength development: aspects on the muscular neurophysiology

Nicola Silvaggi, Domenico Di Molfetta
Atleticastudi n. 1, January-March 2004, vol. 35, p.

The paper describes the main neurophysiological mechanisms, which are at the base of the movements regarding strength and speed, capacities that are produced by the same system. The basic factors of strength are structural, nervous and reflex.
A particular description concerns the structural mechanisms such as hypertrophy, with the methods used to develop them. The other factors concern the kind of muscular fibres and the nervous factors: the (spatial and temporal) recruitment, the synchronization, the inter-muscular coordination.
In conclusion the factors related to the stretching according to the principle that a muscle beforehand stretched, with little variations, expresses in the following shortening a greater power than a simple concentric contraction. The regimen of muscular contraction can be summarized in the following way: isometric and anisometric (concentric, eccentric and plyometric). The article is completed with many pictures and explanatory schemes.

 Key-words : muscular physiology/strength/ speed/muscular fibre/training/methods

 
The use of the information feedback in the teaching of the sports technique

Laura Bortoli, Luciano Baraldo
Atleticastudi n. 1, January-March 2004, vol. 35, p.

 

In the field of technique teaching, a topic, which is very much studied, concerns the information the teacher or the coach have to give to the subject to facilitate learning, through the correction of possible mistakes. It is possible to distinguish an extrinsic feedback (external) and an intrinsic feedback (sensory-perceptive system). Besides the definition, it is considered what the feedback represents in the motor act and which are the phases from the didactical point of view with the aim of identifying the most appropriate moment to reach the wanted purpose. The descriptive feedback is also distinguished from the prescriptive one, according to the used teaching methods.

 

Key-words : technique/teaching/ feedback/mistake

 

 

Muscular strength: methods of strength development: the training of the maximum and explosive strength

Nicola Silvaggi, Domenico Di Molfetta

Atleticastudi n. 1, January-March 2004, vol. 35, p.

 

The paper deals with the problem of the development of strength from the methodological point of view. After illustrating three different definitions of strength, four different expressions of strength (maximum, explosive, endurance for speed strength and muscular endurance) are described and analysed, distinguishing the individual sports and team sports. The methods of development are described for each of them. In particular the factors related to the development of the explosive strength, according to Bosco, are examined. The article, completed with photos and explanatory schemes ends with the description of the methods of strength development according to Zaciorskij.

 

Key-words : methodology /training/ maximum strength / explosive strength/ endurance strength/ speed strength

 

 

The technical preparation of 4x100m. relay race

Filippo Di Mulo

Atleticastudi n. 1, January-March 2004, vol. 35, p.

 

The author describes the characteristics of the preparation of 4x100 meters relay race, referring to the situation of the relays of the Italian national team. The limits and the needed qualities for the relay runners are described in details. The current technique of the execution of the relay is dealt with, examining its characteristics, with different indications on the necessary preparation to face the competition, completed with the description of the appropriate indicators to evaluate the state of the preparation. In conclusion the paper indicates the criteria for the construction of a relay and further hints on the design of training.

 

Key-words: 4x100 relay / training/ technique / teaching / planning

 

 

Biomechanical analysis of throwing events in pre-school age. 

 

Merni Franco, Baravelli Monia, Ceciliani Andrea, Semprini Gabriele.

Atleticastudi n. 1, January-March 2004, vol. 35, p.

 

The authors present a study concerning the motor behaviour in the age of development with an approach of biomechanical kind, taking into account the motor process, determining the result, through the qualitative analysis of the various kinds of throwing with subjects in pre-school age. The characteristics of movements in the various phases of development are examined, through the reading of the various models of throwing. The research derives from the study of 60 throws performed by 8 subjects with 8 balls of different dimensions and weight, with the aim of defining a quantitative method of analysis of the throws with the help of the 2D cinematographic analyses. The values of the angle of the joint, the duration of movement of the throw and the time of execution were recorded. The results indicate that the coordination is still lacking, also for the poor contribution of the lower limbs. The motor model of the upper limbs are extremely variable and the joint of the elbow is the one, which is easily coordinated, followed by the shoulder and only later by the wrist.

 

Key-words: biomechanics/ child/ technique/ evolutive kinesioloy/ kinematic analysis/ throwing events

 

 

Track and field for children – List of control for the support during competition

Hans Katzenbogner

Atleticastudi n. 1, January-March 2004, vol. 35, p.

 

For the children the competitions and the competitive games always represent a pleasant diversion in the context of training. In these occasions they experiment the learned contents and they compare themselves with the children of the same age; the children, but also their parents, face the event with particular tension. The first commandment for the trainers imposes to prepare adequately the children to experiences of this kind. The author describes through a real vademecum, the preparation of the trainer from the organizational point of view with a deepening, that has to be rich of concrete examples, of the tasks the coach has to perform in loco, during the competition. According to the different lists of control, it is pointed out how the success of the competition depends on many factors and suggests how to keep them under control.

 

Key-words: child/ teaching/ competition/ organization

 

 

Health & Fitness Program n°2  – M. Franck Deshais July 22

 

 

Muscular strength: methods of strength development: aspects of the muscular neurophysiology

Nicola Silvaggi, Domenico Di Molfetta

 

The evaluation, seen as control, enhances to monitor training elements, from the metabolic aspects to the neuromuscular ones. The evaluation of strength has a particular importance. The authors point out the significance of the evaluation of the real dynamic movement, the athlete carries out. Through the utilization of different  instruments (ergo power, muscle lab-Bosco system) it is possible to find the mechanical data and to evaluate an important aspect of the neuromuscular system: the electric activity of the nervous system. The results of the different tests, carried out on elite athletes of the throwing sector of the Italian Track and Field Federation, are described and interpreted, through graphs and pictures, taking into account the value of the power as parameter for the improvement of the explosive strength. The purpose is the periodical control of the training of a group of athletes, with the aim of optimising the work and reaching the maximum performance as possible, for strength training.

 

Atleticastudi n. 2, April-June 2004, vol. 35, p.

 

Key-words : methods of strength training/evaluation/ control of training/ muscle-lab/throwing events

 

 

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The personal records in the 400 m. and in the 1500 m. of the best Italian 800 m. runners

 

Enrico Arcelli, Antonio Dotti, Marco Borlengo e Antonio La Torre

Atleticastudi n. 2, April-June 2004, vol. 35, p.

 

The 800 meters has always been considered a “threshold” distance  between the 400 m, which are more clearly anaerobic, and the 1500 m, which are prevalently aerobic. Moreover about the half of the needed energy to run the 800 meters derives from the aerobic mechanism and the remaining half from the anaerobic mechanism; for this reason both athletes, who were very strong in 400 m., and others, who were not able to make good times in 400m, but in 1500m had considerable performances, obtained excellent results in 800 m. Starting from these considerations, in this paper, the performances in 400 m. and in 1500 m. of the best 15 Italian all-time 800 m. runners, men and women, were studied, when they were available.

 

Key-words : middle distance running/ performance analysis/ competition speed

 

 

Psychological assessment of the athletes taking part to the summer camps at Mondovì, Alessandria and Domodossola in 2003

 

Alessandra Giacomazzi, Irene Pavese, Mario Silvetti

Atleticastudi n. 2, April-June 2004, vol. 35, p.

 

The interest of the world of sport for the topics of psychology applied to the competitive activities becomes greater and greater. The authors carried out an investigation of psychological assessment of young athletes practising track and field, who took part to the summer camps in Piedmont in 2003, with the aim of providing new contributions. Through the drafting of emotional profiles some psychological factors, which are specific of excellence, are described. The main factors of the emotional profile are: motivation, adaptation, energy, emotional control, self-efficacy. The results are presented according to the group of athletic disciplines. 

 

 

Key-words : sport psychology / psychological assessment / young athlete /

 

 

The 4x100 meters relay: the preparation of the team

Valentin Maslakov

Atleticastudi n. 2, April-June 2004, vol. 35, p.

 

The paper analyses the main techniques of the change-over in the one hundred meters relay, pointing out both the advantages and disadvantages. The length of the distance and the “comfort” of the execution of the take-over, that is how much it is “comfortable” for the athlete to pass and receive the baton, are used to chose the kind of baton pass. As reference, examples of relays in the most important competitions are taken into account. Moreover the factors, which are at the base of the success of the competition, are described, identifying a model of performance of the discipline. The conclusive part is dedicated to the methods and to the means to improve the techniques of execution.

 

Key-words: 4x100 relay/technique/training/methodology/baton pass

 

 

Treadmill or field. What and how to evaluate?

 

Alfio Cazzetta

Atleticastudi n. 2, April-June 2004, vol. 35, p.

 

The paper deals with the topic of the evaluation in endurance running disciplines, studying the question of the differences between evaluation in the laboratory and in the field. The author describes and analyses numerous typologies of tests used in the field and in the laboratory, pointing out especially the tests on the treadmill, which are examined also from the point of view of the running technique. According to these considerations, the author administered to some subjects the test in the different conditions, highlighting and interpreting the obtained results.

 

Key-words: laboratory test/field test/evaluation/middle distance runing/long distance running/

 

 

Training of strength and technique in throwing events during adolescence

Claudio Veneziano,  Antonio Simarro Rius

Atleticastudi n. 2, April-June 2004, vol. 35, p.

 

The paper illustrates some general guidelines, referring to the training of young throwers. The main problem for the coaches, working with these categories of age, is of harmonizing the absolutely individual nature of the biological (but also motor and technical) development with the development of the performance. The elements, which are at the base of the performance in the throwing disciplines : basic, external, cognitive, motor, strength (in the various components) conditions are examined. The most appropriate means and methods for the considered age are also described.

 

 

Key-words: throwing events/performance model/adolescent/strength/technique

 

 

Health & Fitness Program n°3  – M. Franck Deshais July 22

 

Size, Physique, Body Composition, and Maturity Characteristics of Adolescent and

Young Adult Track and Field Athletes

Robert M. Malina

Atleticastudi n. 3, July-September 2004, vol. 35, p.

 

Data dealing with young track and field athletes date to the mid-1950s, but the majority of information dates to the 1970s and 1980s.  There is, however, considerable overlap among samples across time so that it is difficult to detect specific secular changes.  Allowing for this state of the literature, a comprehensive study of the growth and maturity status of elite child and adolescent track and field athletes would be appropriate.  Inclusion of behavioral variables related to motivation for the sport, self-concept, perceptions of the sport, and relate dimensions would be an excellent complement.  Such a study would be carried out by an international team well versed in the sport and in the study of child and adolescent athletes. Authorities in track and field would designate the appropriate venue or venues to conduct such a study.

 

Key-words : anthropometry / adolescent / growth / elite athlete / auxology / track and field

 

 

Organization of track and field activity in Spain

José Garcìa Grossocordòn

Atleticastudi n. 3, July-September 2004, vol. 35, p.

 

The lecturer illustrates the project the Royal Spanish Track and Field Federation (RFEA) developed with the aim of promoting track and field practice, through a series of procedures and a system of work, starting from the lower categories. More than 3.400 young athletes aged between 13 and 17 years were followed, also four times a year, in global and combined camps. The various phases of the development of track and field in Spain are also described, among which the initiatives the Federation has conceived to integrate physical education at school. In this regard a Guide to promote a new idea in the concept of competition and training for children was elaborated.

 

Key-words : youth activity  / project for talents / promotion / Spain

 

 

Report on the IAAF “Kids’ Athletics” competition and on youth track and field in Russia.

Igor Ter-Ovanesian

Atleticastudi n. 3, July-September 2004, vol. 35, p.

 

The project IAAF “Kid’s athletics”, is described by the lecturer, within the program “Russian youth”, launched by the state government, carried out by the regional development centre in Moscow. The activity included also the complete and exhaustive evaluation of the young athletes and a seminar for coaches.  The research has different phases (sports and medical anamnesis, tests on athletes’ physical health, morphological researches and computerized diagnosis of the cardiovascular system, psychological researches). More than 90 athletes were examined. The data published in the sports literature and the experiences show that at the age of 12-13 years it is not yet possible to predict the future specialization and to make the prevision for sport talent, with some exceptions.

The results obtained on the considered sample are described according to every element. In the future the research will be aimed at the analysis of the biological age of boys and girls.

 

Key-words : youth activity  / project for talents / Russia / descriptive research / test

 

 

The Italian experience in the youth sector

Angelo D’Aprile

Atleticastudi n. 3, July-September 2004, vol. 35, p.

 

The experience carried out by the Italian Federation concerning young athletes’ career is described, from the “allievi” category to the “juniors” one (16-19 years). The project takes into account a more modern educational system based on the willingness of the subjects, involved in the creation of teams able to build relationships with different typologies of individuals. The modality of teambuilding was used because it provides for the assignment of tasks to the various subjects forming it, for the interpretation of the different roles and the interrelation, which they are able to establish with the other elements of the youth sector. A polystructured component is thus integrated with the concept of the formation of the couple athlete-coach. Two operational areas have the task of following the couple athlete-coach: the prevention of injuries area and the one of the control of training. A third area is specialized in the identification and selection of the probable talents, while a fourth one will contribute to the arrangement of a technical-didactical course, that is useful for the ‘detection’ of probable talent. The four areas, working in an integrated way, concur to the growth of young talents, involving them in a conscious educational process.

 

Key-words : youth activity  / project for talents / Italy

 

 

Different aspects of the organization in Africa

Elio Locatelli

Atleticastudi n. 3, July-September 2004, vol. 35, p.

 

With a good youth program, a track and field federation can keep a high level position in the world rankings. According to this consideration the African organization is presented, because it provides one of the most important project, performed by the lecturer since 1985. Two different youth projects of the African organization are presented by  Morocco (Abdel Malek El Hebil) and Ivory Coast (Antony Koffi). IAAF carried out the actions since the beginning of the 90ies with the help of the Development Department, providing for a permanent structure, with 9 regional centres of development in 6 different areas. Finally in 1997 three training centres for high performances were created, with the aim of hosting young athletes. Another African program concerns “the African regional championships”, which provide to carry out, in five regions of Africa, the youth regional championships in the odd years and the junior championships in the even years. This examples show that elite athletes have the chance to stand out only with a good youth program.

 

Key-words: youth activity / project for talents/ Africa

 

 

Screening strategy in sprinting

Anthony Koffi Logbe

Atleticastudi n. 3, July-September 2004, vol. 35, p.

 

The lecturer, describing the reality of youth track and field in Ivory Coast, illustrates the project aimed at the strategy of selection of young talents in sprinting, named “my street is my stadium’. The project, conceived for girls and boys from 10 to 15 years, provides for the transformation of a street in a track. The best are recruited in sports clubs or they can attend a program of Physical and Sports Education. An immediate selection, which has permitted to involve a quarter of the juniors of the national sprint, is obtained. The main limit concerns the evaluation of only the speed of action as well as the lack of qualified coaches.

 

Key-words : youth activity  / project for  talents / Ivory coast / sprinting

 

 

Moroccan system

Abdel Malek El Hebeil

Atleticastudi n. 3, July-September 2004, vol. 35, p.

 

In Morocco track and field is considered the Olympic sport number one. In the last twenty years the Royal Moroccan Track and Field Federation realized a long-term program of development. The strategies to develop track and field are provided in a project named “Track and field in proximity”, consisting of involving directly the local authorities in a program encouraging the athletic practice. The operation involved more than 600.000 young people in 2003. Track and field, cross country running and road running are practised. This program facilitated the approach especially to the competitions concerning a local area simplifying the organizational aspect, which has a strong impact on budgets. There are regional structures of high-level preparation in 36 Regional Training Centres, associating study and training. The project of construction of an “ international training centre in altitude’’ in Ifrane is being studied.

 

Key-words: youth activity  / project per talents / Morocco / competition /local authority

 

 

Strength development in young athletes

Nicola Silvaggi

Atleticastudi n. 3, July-September 2004, vol. 35, p.

 

According to the different expressions of strength, the lecturer takes into account the different factors influencing training (load volume, intensity of movement, methods and means, type of contraction). The age when it is possible to begin strength training is situated toward 13-14 years, immediately after puberty, that is the moment where the complete hormonal maturity is reached. Through the physical exercise, but especially through the choice of an appropriate load and of a correct modality (intensity), it is possible to stimulate the hormonal production and so to provoke the changes in the functional state of the athlete. The substantial difference, between a young and a fully-developed athlete, essentially depends on the levels of maximum strength the athlete expresses during the evaluation. Once measured the maximum level of strength,  the appropriate load and intensity are chosen to train the various strength expressions (maximum strength, explosive strength, explosive strength endurance and muscular endurance).

 

Key-words : strength / control of training / adolescent / training

 

 

The youth middle distance running: periodical permanent control of the French youth middle distance running (from 16 to 22 years).

Patricia Djate Taillard

Atleticastudi n. 3, July-September 2004, vol. 35, p.

 

In the French Federation the periodical permanent control of the disciplines is assured by national technical teams, whose fields of interest are arrangement, education, selection, development, continuing periodical control of international competitions, relationships with coaches and athletes. The structure of this continuing periodical control of youth middle distance running is described in details, according to the levels, categories, organization, medical and socio-professional support, education and communication support for athletes and their coaches. The phases of the selection concern the cross-country running, the summer camp and the ‘cadets challenge’. A specific part of the program is devoted to the continuing education of coaches.

 

 

Key-words : youth activity  / project per  talents / middle distance running / France / organization

 

 

 

Health & Fitness Program n°4  – M. Franck Deshais July 22

 

 

Ivano Brugnetti’s training for the 20 km of Athens

Antonio La Torre

 

Atleticastudi n. 4/2004-1/2/2005, October 2004 - June 2005, vol. 35-36, p.

 

The author, Ivano Brugnetti’s coach, golden medal in the 20 km race walking at the last Olympic Games in Athens, analyses in a detailed way the different training cycles, culminated in the Olympic competition. First the competitions calendar of the international events, to which the athlete participated in the last 5 years, is outlined and the passage from 50 km to 20 km is explained, with the analysis of the performance from the technical, physiological and energy point of view. Training planning and periodization are described, especially the period before the competition, with the most important cycles and the relative training controls.

 

Key-words : RACE WALKING / TRAINING DESIGN/ ivano brugnetti/ pre-competition/ periodization

 

 

Interdependence factors between the sensory perceptive system and human movement. Relationship between visual system and long distance running

Piero Incalza

 

Atleticastudi n. 4/2004-1/2/2005, October 2004 - June 2005, vol. 35-36, p.

 

The methodology of the scientific research exaggerated more and more the analytic study of serial kind, looking for a direct relationship of causality to bolster a hypothesis and make it “scientifically” acceptable. Sometimes this procedure has slackened the understanding of complex phenomena seemingly not correlated between each other. The perceptive organs have an important role in the evaluation both in the external environment and in the internal one and, in many cases, they are responsible for the effectiveness and the precision of the motor responses. Small interferences or dysfunctions of the receptors can induce problems, which, especially because of the exaggerated training, can worsen the damages to the muscular skeletal system, compromising the sports result. The analysis and the monitoring of a hundred of subjects practising long distance running confirm that the removal or the reduction of the factors interfering in the perceptive systems (especially in the visual chain), modify the posture and, consequently, the distribution of the loads, reducing (or eliminating), with this, the pathologies created by a functional overload.

 

Key-words :  perceptive systems / prevention/injuries/long distance running

 

 

Kinematic characteristics of female sprinters during the acceleration phase and maximum speed phase

Milan Čoh, Katja Tomažin, Nusret  Smajlović

 

The authors analyse the acceleration phase of sprinting races, according to different parameters (time of reaction, stride frequency and length, contact and flight phase, the relationship between stride frequency and length, length of lower limbs), trying to define the specific characteristics of female sprinting. The aim is of  identifying the differences between male and female sprinters considering the kinematic parameters in the  acceleration test with low start and of discovering the differences between these parameters in the test of maximum speed. The efficiency of the standing acceleration was evaluated through a test on 30 meters from the starting blocks and the maximum speed was measured with a test on flying 30 meters. In both tests the measurements were carried out with the OPTO–TRACK system.

 

Keywords: sprinting/ kinematic analysis /female competition/stride length/stride frequency/

 

Atleticastudi n. 4/2004-1/2/2005, October 2004 - June 2005, vol. 35-36, p.

 

 

Comparison between the complete clearance and technical drills in hurdle race, by means of kinematic analysis

Franco Merni, Silvio Rossini, Simone Ciacci

 

Atleticastudi n. 4/2004-1/2/2005, October 2004 - June 2005, vol. 35-36, p.

 

The authors describe the results of a research based on a kinematic analysis of the technical drills, which are most commonly used in approaching hurdle race disciplines. The variables used in the different phases of the clearance refer to the different studies existing in literature. The different biomechanical parameters between the complete clearance and the basic technical drills of the hurdle leg and the take-off leg were compared, so that it was possible to identify the differences and the similarities between the most interesting and important variables. The body segments were observed by means of frontal and lateral shots, and the three-dimensional analysis. The results indicate a good checkout of the program and of the standardized method of hurdle clearance analysis, permitting the comparison between the subjects and the differences in hurdle clearance changing hurdle leg.

 

Key-words :  hurdle race / technique  / kinematic  analysis

 

 

Shot put kinematics

Roberto De Luca

 

Atleticastudi n. 4/2004-1/2/2005, October 2004 - June 2005, vol. 35-36, p.

 

In this brief paper the problem of the optimization of shot put is dealt with through an analysis corresponding more to the athletic movement of the discipline. Classically, as a matter of facts, the  module V₀ of the velocity of tool release, the angle q , which the arm of the athlete creates with the horizontal line at the moment of the throw and the height H from which the shot is thrown are considered as independent parameters. These parameters are reduced to two when you consider that the height depends in an explicit way on q. So an analysis in this new context is made and the results are compared with the ones obtained through the application of the classic method.

 

Key-words : kinematic analysis  /shot put / technique / method

 

 

Athletic characteristics analysis of the students attending the first two classes of the “scuole medie superiori” concerning five track and field disciplines

Giuseppe Ocello

 

Atleticastudi n. 4/2004-1/2/2005, October 2004 - June 2005, vol. 35-36, p.

 

The research has the aim of contributing to the determination of a series of significant athletic values, so that they constitute a support for the teacher of physical education. The analysis refers to students of the first two classes of the “scuole  medie superiori”, aged from 14 and 15 years. A series of mean references values was investigated on elementary athletic activities. The knowledge of these data permits to analyse the correlations existing between the various disciplines. From the application point of view, these data permit also to outline the athletic capacities of the subject, with a general objective comparison with the subjects of the same age, and of evaluating showed improvements and thus the validity of the motor proposals presented by the teacher during the year.

 

Key-words : youth acttivity /motor evaluation / scuola media superiore

 

 

Handbook of track and field sports manager

·        Civil law aspects of non-profit sports associations and clubs.

·        Work relations in non-profit associations and clubs.

·        Fiscal and tributary aspects of non-profit associations and clubs.

Guido Martinelli

 

Atleticastudi n. 4/2004-1/2/2005, October 2004 - June 2005, vol. 35-36, p.

 

The supplement constitutes the updating of the Handbook of Track and Field Manager – chapter 1: work relations and tributary regimen in non-profit associations and clubs. As it is known, this is the guide to conduct the management activities of sports associations, in the light of the most recent and radical transformations in the field of non-profit sports activities. Three main aspects are considered: civil law aspects, work relationship and the fiscal and tributary aspects.

 

Key-words: manager handbook / civil law / work  relations/ tax / non-profit associations and clubs

 

 

 

Health & Fitness Program n°5  – M. Franck Deshais July 22

 

 

Reaction times analysis of high level sprinters: a comparison between the old and the new regulation on false start

Massimiliano Ditroilo, Mita Delia, Nicola Silvaggi

 

Atletica Studi no. 3-4/2005, july – december 2005, vol 36, p. 3-8

 

Reaction time is considered an important determinant of success in sprinting. Indeed, a good start can make the difference between winning a gold medal and losing one, especially in indoor competitions. In the attempt to get out of the blocks as fast as possible, athletes tend to anticipate the starter’s shot and may result in a false start. Until the end of 2002 every athlete was allowed one false start before being excluded at the second one. However, since the beginning of 2003, only one false start per race is allowed. Every athlete making the second false start in that race is disqualified.

The aim of this study was to determine whether the new rule has influenced world-class athletes’ reaction times. More specifically, are athletes more cautious because there is a greater risk of disqualification? Essentially, this would be supported if significant differences were apparent in reaction time of high level athletes, when competing under the old and the new rule. The performance times and reaction times of 60 m sprinters and 60 m hurdlers competing in two World Indoor Championships were analysed: Lisbon 2001 and Birmingham 2003. Overall, it was found that reaction time was not significantly different in athletes competing in Lisbon and in Birmingham.

 

Key-words: Sprinting / reaction time /start /elite athlete / hurdles race / indoor/ world championship / comparative study / regulation

 

 

Running in multiple events

Renzo Avogaro

 

Atletica Studi no. 3-4/2005, july – december 2005, vol 36, p. 9-20

 

Through the analysis of the last results at the international level, the author points out the strategic importance of the skill of running quickly the last competition of the multiple events. To this purpose the metabolic and muscular bases relating to this event are considered comparing them with the physiological demands of the other events. Some methodological considerations, aimed at the development of aerobic power, are proposed, integrated by some useful suggestions for youth training

 

Key-words:  multiple  events / training / aerobic power / method / elite athlete / endurance / physiology / performance model

 

 

Approach to 3000 meters steeplechase – Technique and didactics

Alfio Cazzetta

 

Atletica Studi no. 3-4/2005, july – december 2005, vol 36, p. 21-34

 

The author deals with the topic of the technical learning and of teaching of hurdles in the competition of the 3000 meters steeplechase, which have to be provided when training running pace. After a brief historical review, through which the current problems of the “steeplechaser” are compared, the specific characteristics of this kind of athlete are identified, so that he can face with success this discipline, (courage, hurdle clearance, attentional skill,  relationship hurdles technique and laterality). In the conclusion the didactical and methodological indications for a correct approach to the discipline are described, with sequences of drills (rhythm and control, education to running, running pace)

 

Key-words: 3000 m. STEEPLECHASE / TEACHING / TECHNIQUE / DRILL / METHOD

 

 

Analysis of run-up speed in triple jumpers of high qualification

Guido Brunetti, Marco Baggio, Giammarco Bartolomucci, Carlo Minganti

 

Atletica Studi no. 3-4/2005, july – december 2005, vol 36, p. 35-40

 

The modality of performing the run-up by triple jumpers is one of the critical factors for the success of the jump. The aim of this study is of analysing the behaviour of high level athletes in the last strides before the take-off. To this purpose the mean speed of the last ten meters of the run-up, preceding the take-off board, is determined, to evaluate the reduction of the horizontal speed at the take-off. The quantitative analysis, carried out at the World Championship in Rome 1987, was compared with the lower level performances. No positive correlations between the trend of the considered parameters and the results of the jump were recorded. The factors, determining the success of the jump concern coordinative and perceptive aspects in performing the hop, step and jump, athletes’ strength, technique of the execution, andlanding.

 

Key-words:  triple jump / run-up / elite athlete / Optojump / tale-off / technique / Horizontal SPEED

 

 

Young sprinter’s preparation

Filippo Di Mulo

 

Atletica Studi no. 3-4/2005, july – december 2005, vol 36, p. 41-52

 

The paper presents the training means, the organization and the training loads of junior sprinters, according to author’s personal experiences. General indications on the training strategy are explained and the various training cycles according to the different methodological purposes are described. The results of the different control tests of training are also examined, with some considerations on the rhythmic nature of the competition.

 

Key-words: SPRINTING / metHod / junior ATHLeTEs / TRAINING / testING / periodizaTion /DRILL

 

 

Young athlete’s attention. How to improve it, using other forms of activity

Paolo Maurizio Messina

 

Atletica Studi no. 3-4/2005, july – december 2005, vol 36, p. 53-64

 

Technical tactical learning in young people requires an attentional skill, which has to be developed. The author analyses the topics related to athletes’ attention: focus and attentional style, attention in the peripheral vision, orientation of attention, selection of information, division of attention and intensity, relationship between attention and error, the various forms of errors. The author points outs that the skill of focusing attention is a skill to acquire since childhood. Sometimes the aspects related to the attentional modalities and to the  skill of maintaining a good concentration, both during training and competition, are taken for granted or, anyway, dealt by coaches with occasional interventions. Athlete’s attention can be controlled also through diagnostic talks with the athlete, enhancing to outline the way of attentional development.

 

Key-words: Psychology/ attention / attentional style / training /

 

 

The contribution of the sociological analysis to the management of sports organizations

William Gasparini, Alberto Madella

 

Atletica Studi no. 3-4/2005, july – december 2005, vol 36, p. 65-79

 

This article analyzes from a sociological perspective the functioning and structure of the sport organizations, that are considered as key actors in the management of the sport movement and events. The sport movement has been characterized by a progressive institutionalisation and bureaucratisation and is currently looking for more advanced forms of coexistence between the principles of amateurism and volunteerism and entrepreneurial concepts, which are necessary to compete on the market and the match the expectations of the changing demand of sport services.  This is heavily modifying the conditions of effectiveness of the sport organizations. To this purpose, the study analyses the main characteristics of the sport organizations (goals, manifest and latent functions, actors, environment), the nature of the collective action, the strategic game played by the different organizational actor and stakeholders, as well as the collective representations associated to the sport organizations.

 

Key-words: Sociology / management / organization / voluteerism / sport association / marketing

 

A good sense of movement makes the difference

Juergen Schwerin

 

Atletica Studi no. 3-4/2005, july – december 2005, vol 36, p. 80-93

 

Coordinative skills are fundamental to have success in sport and also in track and field. But they are not often enough taken into account, especially in the early ages. In this work the author points out the skill of kinesthetic differentiation, which is very important for many disciplines of track and field, providing not only the main theoretical notions, but also, as it is usual in track and field training, dealing with them from the point of view of practice. As a matter of fact some specific drills, permitting to improve this important skill in different athletic disciplines, are described.

 

 

Key-words: Method / coordinative  abilities / kinesthetic differentiation /young athlete / training / drill

 

 

 

 

 

Le travail intermittent
Exercices fondamentaux de l’amélioration de la puissance maximale aérobie (PMA).

Gilles Cometti, C.E.P Dijon; Revu et corrigé par Franck Deshais

L’amélioration de la puissance maximale aérobie repose sur deux méthodes. Le travail continu, appelé aussi « travail d’endurance fondamentale » et le travail intermittent ou « fractionné ». Néanmoins, l'augmentation de la PMA repose principalement sur le travail intermittent car plus adapté à une amélioration quantitative rapide de la VMA.
Le travail intermittent permet également d’obtenir des séquences de travail variées, effectuées sur des durées plus courtes que lors d'un exercice type d’endurance fondamentale. C’est pourquoi ce travail sera plus à même d’être incorporé et utilisé lors de microcycles d’entraînement.

Il semble également opportun d’y ajouter, par incrémentation, des exercices de musculation. Ceux ci, reconnus pour augmenter la force maximale ou la puissance musculaire, permettront d'améliorer quantitativement et qualitativement les résultats. Les séquences de travail en fractionné seront donc cumulées à des entrainements spécifiques "force", adaptés.

Sommaire:
 I Le travail intermittent

1                    Les bases de l’élaboration du programme

2                    Le contenu des séquences

3                    La durée des efforts et des récupérations

4                    L’alternance des efforts

5                    L’alternance des étapes

6                    Conclusion

 II Musculation: Techniques d'entrainement de la force associées au travail intermittent

7                    Elaboration de la typologie d’entraînement spécifique

8                    Fréquence des séquences

9                    Rappels

 

Stretching and the Warm up – Are You Confused?

The Stretching is beneficial, when used correctly. However, as with most activities there are rules and guidelines to ensure that they are safe, and stretching is no exception. This article puts to rest some of the confusion about how and when stretching should be used as part of the warm up.

Stretching and the Warm up – Are You Confused?
Lately, I’ve been receiving a lot of questions (in French) referring to the latest studies and research findings (G.Cometti 2005), and one question that I receive most queries about concerns the role that stretching plays as part of the warm up.
Currently, there seems to be a lot of confusion about how and when stretching should be used as part of the warm up, and some people are under the impression that stretching should be avoided altogether.
This is a very important issue and needs to be clarified immediately. The rest of this article is dedicated to dispelling some common myths and misconceptions about stretching and its’ role as part of the warm up.

What has Science got to say?
Most of the studies I've reviewed attempt to determine the effects of stretching on injury prevention. This is a mistake in itself and shows a lack of understanding as to how stretching is used as part of an injury prevention program and the warm up.

Stretching and its effect on physical performance and injury prevention is something that just can't be measured scientifically. Sure you can measure the effect of stretching on flexibility with simple tests like the "Sit and Reach" test, but then to determine how that affects athletic performance or injury susceptibility is near impossible.

One of the more recent studies on stretching supports this view by concluding;
"Due to the paucity, heterogeneity and poor quality of the available studies no definitive conclusions can be drawn as to the value of stretching for reducing the risk of exercise-related injury." (The efficacy of stretching for prevention of exercise-related injury: a systematic review of the literature, 2003, Weldon)

To put the above quote in layman’s terms; there hasn’t been enough studies done and the studies that have been done are not specific or consistent enough. For the most comprehensive assessment and conclusion of research done on the affects of stretching I suggest you have a read through the following article, "The Truth about Stretching."

 
The Greatest Misconception
Confusion about what stretching accomplishes, as part of the warm up, is causing many to abandon stretching altogether. The key to understanding the role stretching plays can be found in the previous sentence. But, you have to read it carefully.

Stretching, as part of the warm up! Yes, but before warm up!

Here’s the key: Stretching is a critical part of the warm up, but stretching is NOT the warm up.
Don’t make the mistake of thinking that doing a few stretches constitutes a warm up. An effective warm up has a number of very important key elements, which work together to minimize the likelihood of sports injury and prepare the individual for physical activity.
Identifying the components of an effective and safe warm up, and executing them in the correct order is critical. Remember, stretching is only one part of an effective warm up and its’ place in the warm up routine is specific and dependant on the other components.

The four key elements that should be included to ensure an effective and complete warm up are:

1. The general warm up
This phase of the warm up consists of 5 to 15 minutes of light physical activity (cf échauffement (French). The aim here is to elevate the heart rate and respiratory rate, increase blood flow and increase muscle temperature.

2. Static stretching
Next, 5 to 15 minutes of gentle static stretching should be used to gradually lengthen all the major muscle groups and associated tendons of the body.

3. The sports specific warm up
During this phase of the warm up, 10 to 15 minutes of sport specific drills and exercises should be used to prepare the athlete for the specific demands of their chosen sport.

4. Dynamic stretching (!) be carreful, the dynamic Stretching maybe not use.
Dynamic stretching involves a controlled, soft bounce or swinging motion to force a particular body part past its usual range of movement. The force of the bounce or swing is gradually increased but should never become radical or uncontrolled.

Please note; dynamic stretching carries with it a high risk of injury if used incorrectly. Dynamic stretching is more for muscular conditioning than flexibility and is really only suited for professional, well trained, highly conditioned athletes. Dynamic stretching should only be used after a high level of general flexibility has been established.
All four parts are equally important and any one part should not be neglected or thought of as not necessary. All four elements work together to bring the body and mind to a physical peak, ensuring the athlete is prepared for the activity to come.

 

So what conclusions can we make?

Stretching is beneficial, when used correctly. However, as with most activities there are rules and guidelines to ensure that they are safe, and stretching is no exception. Stretching can be extremely dangerous and harmful if used incorrectly.
Remember, stretching is just one very important component that assists to reduce the risk of injury and improve athletic performance. The best results are achieved when stretching is used in combination with other injury reduction techniques and conditioning exercises.
For more information and articles on stretching, flexibility and sports injury, visit The Stretching & Sports Injury Newsletter at; http://www.TheStretchingHandbook.com/

Stretching et échauffement – Confusion des méthodes?

Le stretching est une méthode spécifique d'étirement, bien souvent, les étirements sont confondus avec le stretching. Toute forme d'étirement n'est pas stretching, le stretching ne rassemble pas toutes les formes d'étirements.Il est bénéfique, lorsqu'il est utilisé correctement. Beaucoup d'activités doivent être réalisées avac précaution, et le stretching ne fait pas exception.

Je ne suis pas 100% en accord avec l'article ci-dessus, mais mes faibles notions en Anglais ne me permettent pas d'élaborer un article plus complet! lol; Je ne fait qu'y relater les méthodes qui me semble être les plus à même d'etre utilisées afin d'obtenir un résultat significatif lors de l'échauffement.
J'ai reçu récemment reçu beaucoup de questions sur les dernières recherches, et la question qui revient le plus souvent concerne le rôle du stretching dans l'échauffement.  Souvent, il y à confusion lorsqu'il s'agit  de savoir quand le stretching doit être  utiliser lors de l'échauffement, et beaucoup de gens commencent à croire qu'il y à un risque à effectuer ces étirements.

C'est un choix vraiment important qu'il faut immédiatement clarifier.

Qu'en est-il de la recherche sur la question?

L'étirement et son effet sur l'exécution (dans la performance physique) et la prévention de blessure font l'objet d'éléments qui ne peuvent être quantifiables scientifiquement. Vous pouvez certainement mesurer l'effet d'étirement sur la flexibilité avec des essais simples, mais ensuite déterminer comment cela affecte l'exécution (la performance) sportive ou la sensibilité de blessure est simplement impossible.

 

Les idées reçues les plus graves:

1. Échauffement général

Cette phase de la préparation consiste à effectuer entre 5 à 15 minutes d'exercice physique de faible intensité. Le but est d'élever les rythmes cardiaque et respiratoire, d'augmenter l'afflux sanguin et la température musculaire.

 
2. Stretching (étirements de type passif isométrique)

Suivi de 5 à 15 minutes d'étirements statiques léger, faits de façon graduelle, sur les muscles moteurs principaux, associés aux articulations et tendons du corps

 
3. Échauffement spécifique de l'activité

Lors de cette phase de l'échauffement, 10 à 15 minutes de mouvements spécifiques à l'activité concomitante peuvent être effectués pour préparer l'athlète aux demandes spécifiques de son activité.

4. Stretching dynamique (!) Attention à ne pas confondre avec des étirement de type balistiques, à utiliser avec précaution..

Le stretching dynamique implique un contrôle parfait; souvent, le rebond ou le mouvement de balancé est présent, inutile de forcer une partie de corps particulière dans cette gamme habituelle de mouvement. La force du rebond ou de l'oscillation est progressivement augmentée, mais ne devrait jamais devenir radicale ou non contrôlée.

à noter:  l'étirement dynamique conduit à un risque élevé de blessure s'il est utilisé de façon inadéquate. L'étirement dynamique est plus pour un conditionnement musculaire que de la flexibilité et ne convient vraiment que pour le professionnel, bien formé, ou des athlètes parfaitement conditionnés. L'étirement dynamique devrait être utilisé qu'une fois obtenu un haut niveau de souplesse générale.

 

Pour plus d'informations et d'articles sur le stretching, la souplesse et  les blessures dues au sport, visitez The Stretching & Sports Injury Newsletter à l'adresse suivante: http://www.TheStretchingHandbook.com/  (en Anglais).