Print this page

Planning a Snowshoeing Training Season It's important to start off the snowshoeing training season with a plan for the season. A training season plan must take into account the competition schedule and the development and preparation of the athletes for those competitions.  Season plans consist of three components: Preseason, In-season and Postseason.   The training season plan should incorporate the components that will allow the athletes to reach or attain the goals that they set at the beginning of the season. The goals may vary widely and should thus be adaptable as practical to the individual athletes' goals, which may range from competition to a weekly workout.   Developing a Season Plan The snowshoeing coach needs to prepare for the upcoming season. The list below offers some suggestions on getting started. Improve knowledge of snowshoeing and coaching skills by attending training sessions and clinics. Recruit assistant coaches. Locate a facility for practice sessions. Arrange for needed equipment. Recruit volunteers to transport the athletes to and from practice and/or competition. Recruit athletes. Ensure that all prospective snowshoeing athletes are registered Special Olympics athletes. Establish goals and draw up a training plan such as the one provided later in this guide. Try to schedule at least one training session per week. If possible, develop a home training program. Preseason Maintaining overall fitness during the spring, summer and fall is the best preparation for a snowshoeing season. A steady progression to build up strength and conditioning is best. Running is the best preparation for snowshoeing.   In-season This is where the plan comes into action. Plan each practice session according to what needs to be accomplished. Training can be done on snow, sand or soft grass. Just because there is no snow, it doesn't mean that training cannot occur. A limited amount of training in snowshoes on these surfaces will not greatly damage the equipment and will help athletes familiarize themselves with the sport if no snow is present.   During the first practice, administer the Sports Skills Assessment Test and set the athletes' goals according to individual ability levels. Orient the athletes to the facility and their equipment. The goals and skills of the athletes should be monitored periodically throughout the season with modification to the training session to enable the athletes to meet their goals. As competition approaches, try to simulate race conditions for athletes. Relays are a good way to prepare the athletes for the excitement of racing and teamwork. If on-snow time is limited, emphasize conditions that simulate races or race pace as much as possible when you do get a chance to be on snow.   Postseason Once the season is over, this is the time to thoroughly evaluate the athletes' progress against goals set and provide feedback to the athletes. Develop off-season training plans for those athletes who wish to train in the off-season. Off-season training plans should be consistent with the athletes' overall training goals.   Evaluate the training plan and make modifications for next year's season. Request feedback from athletes, assistant coaches, parents, etc., for use in modifying next year's training program.

Prev Page Next Page