There are a number of training cycles that an athlete goes through in the course of a season that helps prepare them for the big event at the end of season. These cycles are Conditioning phase, Preparation phase, Competition phase, and the Peaking phase. The training emphasis, or training focus must be consistent with the proper cycle.

Honing, or sharpening of skills can come at any segment of the training cycle. For example you can sharpen you cardiovascular conditioning in the conditioning phase by increasing duration of exercise, or by increasing the level of intensity of the workout. In the peaking phase conditioning also can be sharpened, but the focus should be on intensity - hard and short in duration.

Technical skills are honed in the preparation phase. Reps, reps, reps, but the fine tuning of those skills can come in the competition phase (following evaluation or video tape study) as well as the peaking phase. Full speed, perfect technique is what we seek in the Peaking phase. During Peaking what we seek a problem free environment - no major corrections to make, plan your tactics and strategies, just get in to the zone, hungry to perform.

The Mental Side

No matter what cycle you're in, mental skills development is important. As an athlete you should always be working on your self-talk, dealing with stress, centering, and imagery. During the competition and peaking phase it is important to emphasis your affirmations, and relaxation exercises to reduce the stress prior to the big event. Focus as well on your strategies and tactics. Be sharp mentally.

Planning

Planning your workouts is very important. You have to take control. There is always areas that you can work on, on your own. Whether it be your strength, endurance, conditioning, or just fine tuning a technique or a skill - there are things you can do, and need to do on your own.

Make a Training Journal. Set your schedule and decide what you need to do. Check it off to make sure you are doing these things you need to cover. Take your Training Journal to practice with you, check off the list as you complete it. This is a part of Goal Setting - goal checking will keep you on track and will help assist you in reaching the training goals you set earlier in an unemotional, and success oriented setting.

Rest and Recovery

Rest and recovery from intensive practices should also be included in your training cycles. Rest is an important component of training, and should be included in all phases of training.

Sleep is important. Focus on achieving restful sleep that allows your body to fully recover from both physical and mental stresses.

Stay Motivated

Staying motivated to attend practices and to focus on your work is vital. Meet your daily practice schedule and daily goals. Make dates, times and tasks. It is easy to skip days or sessions, but your desire to be a champion should be your driving force to keep going.

Keep your goals posted and in front of you. Write them in your Training Journal. Post them on the bathroom mirror. Put them on the wall of your bedroom. Focus on them daily.

Pull It Together

It takes a total approach to hone your skills for peak performance; physical, mental and emotional. You know what to do. Make your plans, carry them out, then enjoy your success!