The familiar adage “use it or lose it” holds 100% true regarding the principles of athletic training. When training stops, significant decreases in muscle mass, cardiovascular endurance, and VO2max levels are well-documented (1,2,3).
A measurable loss of muscular and cardiovascular fitness will be observed in most athletes after a period of inactivity of just 14 days. Losses of 50% in VO2max have been shown after 4-12 weeks of detraining. How quickly an athlete deconditions depends on his initial conditioning level.
Furthermore, upon an athlete’s return to training, there is an increased risk of injury due to the reduced physical capabilities created by the deconditioning. Athletes must then return to training at a decreased training standard to avoid injury. All this time away prevents the athlete from reaching peak fitness for competition.
Clay Performance Training (CPT) designs programs to help teams and individuals continue to build and improve endurance, speed, strength, power, agility, and stability year-round. Recovery periods are implemented in a strategic manner so young athletes avoid overtraining as well as receive the beneficial muscle gain that results from proper rest.
