The Biological Law of Training

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The basic tenant of training is that in order to increase the size, strength or endurance of muscles — or the functional capacity of other physiological systems — they must be repeatedly stressed (in both intensity and duration) at levels greater than those normally encountered.

When training is developmental increases in volume and intensity are designed to induce large structural and functional changes in the system.

Reducing training loads maintains the functions developed.

Training stress is also called a stimulus, which is the workload imposed on the athlete. The cell, organ or system immediately goes into a state of fatigue when exposed to a workload. Adaption, or response, to the training tress happens during the periods of recovery following workloads.

Training stress reduces the functional ability of the athlete. The period of subsequent recovery initiates mechanisms that result in super-compensatory adaptions which eventually lead to improved performance. The application of training stress and recovery is considered a single process — as stimulus (stress) and response (recovery) are two inseparable processes.

Efficient physical conditioning is a consequence of balanced nutrition, consistent sleep patterns combined with an exercise schedule of appropriate intensity, duration and type, carefully planned over a prolonged period which includes suitable restoration phases to regenerate energy stores, repair cells and promote regular super-compensatory adaptions.

The Biological Law of Training

The structure and performance capability of an organic system is determined by its genetic constitution and the quality and quantity of stressful workloads, and depth of recovery/adaptation from workloads.

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