Any sport played causes unequal loads on different parts of the body such as one arm being used more than the other and things such as the antagonists muscles (hamstrings) being used less than the antagonist muscles (quadriceps) which are stressed to a greater extent. Also larger muscles grow stronger and more powerful during the season while the stabilizing, smaller but yet important, muscles get neglected. The key in off-season training is to find a balance between the maintenance of fitness and recovery. A mode such as cross-training for example could be used to allow active recovery while also preserving a base level of fitness, most importantly making sure the off-season training period is no longer than 8 to 15 weeks. The off-season training objectives would include things such as increase lean body mass, increase work capacity, develop strength base, set specific individual goals, injury prevention, improve running mechanics and maintain sport
Any sport played causes unequal loads on different parts of the body such as one arm being used more than the other and things such as the antagonists muscles (hamstrings) being used less than the antagonist muscles (quadriceps) which are stressed to a greater extent. Also larger muscles grow stronger and more powerful during the season while the stabilizing, smaller but yet important, muscles get neglected. The key in off-season training is to find a balance between the maintenance of fitness and recovery. A mode such as cross-training for example could be used to allow active recovery while also preserving a base level of fitness, most importantly making sure the off-season training period is no longer than 8 to 15 weeks. The off-season training objectives would include things such as increase lean body mass, increase work capacity, develop strength base, set specific individual goals, injury prevention, improve running mechanics and maintain sport