Fartleck Training
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Fartlek training is a good aerobic and anaerobic
practice for the
off-season and
pre-season. |
Fartlek training is a relaxed adaptation of
interval training.
Fartlek training (literally "speed play") is
normally done in-groups led by a member of the
group. The group sets off on a cross-country run
at an easy pace. The leader who can be changed
periodically, varies the pace from time to time
with short, intense sprints, and fast middle
distance runs of up to a half mile in length. Recovery periods, tempo, and speed are
up to the
leader's discretion and can be adapted to suit
the terrain, like a sprint up a hill, or a
zigzag run between fallen leaves. This is a good
aerobic and anaerobic practice for the
off-season and pre-season and should be a fun
"follow-the-leader" game.
The Fartlek system can also be used during
in-season or preseason
sessions for skill practice, or a warm-up ball
handling session. Here, the leader, closely
followed by his group of 2 to 4 players, changes
not only the pace and direction of running
around the field, but also varies ball control
skill challenges into the workout.
During the Fartlek training the leaders must allow some
recovery breaks between the intense
routines. This will allow the players to do more
work at a high intensity before tiring.
