All planning should be done in writing. Working out the
plans on a large calendar can be helpful. All of the planning should include
goals and objectives. What do the coach and the swimmers want to accomplish?
Determine how the goals will be accomplished and develop a timeline to meet the
goals. Finally, consider how to measure success and achievement of the goals.
Develop individual and team goals and objectives and have personal goals and
objectives for professional development. Goals and objectives should not be
limited to times and rankings. The long term development of athletes is more
important than short term performance at meets.
In
planning the overall season, coaches should focus on development of the athlete
rather than meet performance. Consider developing new events and training
capacities. In planning each month, pick a focus or goal for the month such as
a skill development or a particular meet. Moving down to the weekly plan, again
have an overall goal for the week. Then consider what type of work or teaching
will be the focus each day and be sure to balance or cycle through different
types of work, recovery and skill development. Finally, plan each day, having a
goal or purpose for each practice. Balance the different activities during each
practice to achieve the practice goal or objective. Be flexible and don’t try
to accomplish too many different activities within one practice because the
swimmers may be confused rather than challenged.
All
of the following should be included in the planning:
- Team Development
- Stroke Training
- Training
Improvement
- Mental Skills
Improvement
- Strength and
Flexibility
- Skill
Development
- Race Technique
- Times and
Rankings