Create seasonal training plans and distribute them in advance

A seasonal training plan creates a structure for the season. It allows athletes to plan their season and ensure they maximise their training. All  bodies are different and, as a result, react to intensive and rest periods differently. It is good practice to, after an intensive phase, have physical  and mental recovery periods. It might also be worth considering the difference between female and male bodies. These differences lead to  specific considerations for injury prevention. Training plans, especially when working on special drills or tactics, should be communicated in  advance to give players time to study the playbook, meaning the training will be easier to coach and run more smoothly.  

Regularly check in with players and coaches to see how their bodies and mind are doing. Mental recovery is just as important as physical  recovery, and different players need different things. 

If your club participates in the indoor and outdoor seasons, spend extra time planning out your season to ensure that athletes have a break  between seasons to focus on their recovery.  

Also, athletes should have enough time to have a strength and conditioning period between the outdoor and indoor seasons. 

A few tips: 

• The different elements of ultimate should be taken into account. Allow athletes time to develop their skills, fitness, explosiveness etc. A gym focused training period will work to benefit your players in terms of performance and injury prevention. It will benefit your team as your athletes  will be able to outperform their previous season.  
• Run a skills clinic the training after a big tournament to allow for less physical activity. Also, allow for rest sessions after longer tournaments. 
• Have a safe space for players where they can share their concerns for the season ahead.