Sports performance training is a training plan specifically designed to help athletes perform at a higher level in their sport. The plan is ongoing (year-round) following an athlete’s schedule—in season and postseason. This type of intensive training is different from conventional training. Conventional fitness or bodybuilding training is focused on health and appearance, whereas performance training has the end goal of improving specific athletic performance. It may sound complicated, but performance training techniques are a great complement to conventional fitness plans.

An athlete in performance training might work on explosive movements, cardiovascular training, sport-specific drills, and dynamic stretching. The stretches and exercises designed in the program will mimic the movements on the field. Various situations are thrown into the mix to work on response in both ground and upright movements. He or she will also work on improving general skills like joint mobility, strength, stabilization and coordination.

In performance training, the techniques are specific and not universal. For example, a soccer player will need plenty of aerobic exercise and the ability to change directions quickly and a competitive power lifter will need stabilization and more strength than agility. It’s not uncommon for an athlete to work with multiple coaches and trainers to meet his or her performance goals.