Long Distance Long-Term Athletes Development and Training Methods in Woliso Town Athletes Club

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.