How To Improve Your Strength
Strength is an important component of success in most athletics events, and therefore should be an essential part of most training programs. The time spent in training for strength should be proportional to the requirement for these components in your event, and your deficiencies in this area.
Strength is the maximal force you can apply against a load, and power is proportional to the speed at which you can apply this maximal force. Training to improve in this area can include lifting free weights, throwing heavier implements, running against a resistance, and plyometrics (depth jumping and bounding).
Strength training can be commenced as young as thirteen. For the beginner, a gradual introduction is necessary to learn the correct techniques, to prevent injuries from occurring, and to gain good baseline strength on which more intensive and complex weight training programs can be developed.
Improvements in strength follow the overload principle. That is, to increase muscle strength the muscles need to be stressed with a load greater than normal. The muscles are thus stimulated to adapt to the increased load. This principle is illustrated by the story of the muscleman Milo (of the drink fame) who as the legend goes began his strength training as a young man by lifting a calf every day. As the calf grew heavier, so Milo became stronger, until eventually, he was able to lift the fully grown bull above his head.
Once you have good baseline strength, more complex and specific
programs can then be performed. The exercises chosen should be
specific to the muscle groups used and the actions performed in
your event. Variation is also important to maximize the gains
in strength. Varying intensity (amount of rest, weight lifted)
and volume (repetitions, sets, sessions per week), provides a greater
stimulus for strength gains than simply following a set program
and progressively increasing the amount of weight lifted. Weight
training three times a week, with at least one day between sessions
is generally adequate. Rest days between sessions are necessary
for recovery and adaptation to take place.
Not everyone wants to be like Arnold Schwarzenegger, and nor do they have to be. Strength training is suitable for most events, males and females. With the help of an expert, a program specific for your needs can be designed by varying such things as the exercises, repetitions, sets, weight lifted and number of sessions per week.
Related Pages
- About Strength and Fitness Training
- Maximizing your strength workouts — make changes to get the same benefits in half the time.
- Resistance training programs
- Testing for strength and power
- Resistance training exercises
- Strength Training Equipment
- What are the highest-ranking strength sports?
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