Abstract:
This study aimed to assess long-term athlete development and training methodologies for
endurance athletes. Using mixed research methods, including a survey, interviews, and
observations, the researchers collected data from 120 respondents and 3 interviewees and
selected by census sampling techniques for survey questions. Qualitative data was collected from
three respondents selected by the purposive method. Quantitative data was analyzed through
descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation) using SPSS version
26. Beside this interview and observation, data were analyzed qualitatively, and triangulated
data was gathered through quantitative methods. Based on the analysis made of this study,
conclusions were drawn, and the findings of this study indicated the key findings include,
Periodization, the majority of athletes (70.83%) reported that traditional periodization training
programs were not effective for long-term development, suggesting a need for more
individualized and flexible approaches. Progressive Overload: Over 60% of respondents felt that
standard progressive overload training methods had not led to significant performance
improvements. Age-Appropriate Adaptation the study recommends that coaches carefully
account for athletes' age, maturation, and injury risk when designing training plans. The study
concludes that coaches and trainers need to re-evaluate their approach to long-distance athlete
development and training, and identify more effective methodologies. By deeply understanding
the nuanced factors that shape the journey of endurance athletes, coaches can optimize their
approach and unlock the full potential of their talented charges on long distance long term
athlete development.
