Explain how program customisation approaches differ between recreational participants and elite athletes. (5 marks)
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- Program customisation differs mainly because the two groups train for different reasons. Recreational participants usually train to improve health, fitness and enjoyment. Elite athletes train to improve competitive performance in a specific sport.
- As a result, customisation for recreational participants focuses on safety and adherence. Programs are built around personal factors such as time availability, motivation and preferred activities, because a program that is not enjoyed is likely to be abandoned. For instance, a client who dislikes running may be given cycling or swimming to improve cardiovascular fitness.
- In contrast, customisation for elite athletes targets precise performance limitations. This is because small improvements can decide competition results. For example, when testing shows a kickboxer has a strength imbalance between their legs, the program is adjusted to specifically correct it.
- Assessment methods also differ for this reason. Recreational participants often complete general or submaximal tests that safely establish a baseline. Elite athletes undergo detailed, sport-specific testing that identifies exactly which capacities limit their performance.
- The frequency of adjustment differs as well. Recreational programs are typically updated after periodic reassessment as fitness improves. Elite programs are modified continually around competition schedules and training phases, so the athlete performs at their best when it matters most.
- Therefore, while both groups receive individualised programs, the purpose of training determines what is customised and how often it changes.
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- Program customisation differs mainly because the two groups train for different reasons. Recreational participants usually train to improve health, fitness and enjoyment. Elite athletes train to improve competitive performance in a specific sport.
- As a result, customisation for recreational participants focuses on safety and adherence. Programs are built around personal factors such as time availability, motivation and preferred activities, because a program that is not enjoyed is likely to be abandoned. For instance, a client who dislikes running may be given cycling or swimming to improve cardiovascular fitness.
- In contrast, customisation for elite athletes targets precise performance limitations. This is because small improvements can decide competition results. For example, when testing shows a kickboxer has a strength imbalance between their legs, the program is adjusted to specifically correct it.
- Assessment methods also differ for this reason. Recreational participants often complete general or submaximal tests that safely establish a baseline. Elite athletes undergo detailed, sport-specific testing that identifies exactly which capacities limit their performance.
- The frequency of adjustment differs as well. Recreational programs are typically updated after periodic reassessment as fitness improves. Elite programs are modified continually around competition schedules and training phases, so the athlete performs at their best when it matters most.
- Therefore, while both groups receive individualised programs, the purpose of training determines what is customised and how often it changes.