A model study of optimal training reduction during pre-event taper in elite swimmers

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess responses to taper in elite athletes using computer simulations. Parameters of a non-linear model were derived from training and performance data over two seasons for eight elite swimmers. The fit between modelled and actual performances was statistically significant for each swimmer (r(2) = 0.56 +/- 0.06; P < 0.01). The simulations were used to estimate characteristics of step and progressive tapers that would maximize performance either (1) after regular training only or (2) after overload training of a 20% step increase in regular training for 28 days. The highest performance with a step taper was greater with than without prior overload training (101.4%, s = 1.6 vs. 101.1%, s = 1.4 of personal record; P < 0.01) but required a longer taper duration (22.4 days, s = 13.4 vs. 16.4 days, s = 10.3; P < 0.05). The optimal progressive taper led to a better performance only after the overload period (101.5%, s = 1.5; P < 0.001). Negative and positive influences of training were estimated as indicators of fatigue and adaptations to training respectively. During the optimal taper, the negative influence was completely removed, independently of the prior training, whereas the positive influence increased only after overload training. Our computer simulations show that the characteristics of an optimal training reduction in elite athletes depend on the training performed in the weeks prior to a taper.

Performance Estimation using the Fitness-Fatigue Model with Kalman Filter Feedback

“…Sanchez, A. M., Galbs, O., Fabre-Guery, F., Thomas, L., Douillard, A., Py, G., et. al., 2013;Thomas, L., Mujika, I., & Busso, T., 2008), though the prediction of performances in conjunction with verifications by means of performance measurements has been neglected almost entirely (Chalencon, S., Pichot, V., Roche, F., Lacour, J. R., Garet, M., Connes, P., et. al., 2015).…”

Nutrition and Training Adaptations in Aquatic Sports

“…Notwithstanding individual responses, in general, swimming performance appears to be maximized by a taper lasting 8-21 days, where the training volume is progressively decreased by 41-60%, without any modification of either training intensity or frequency (Bosquet et al, 2007). However, the training responses and adaptation profiles of individual athletes should be considered when designing a taper program (Mujika et al, 1996b) to determine optimal taper durations and the suitability of progressive versus step tapers (Mujika et al, 1996a), the impact of overreaching the athletes before the taper (Thomas et al, 2008), or the potential fitness and performance value of a final increase in the training load (Thomas et al, 2009).…”

A nonlinear model for the characterization and optimization of athletic training and performance

“…H ellard et al incorporated a Hill function as a scaling term for stress to model a threshold in the stress-response relationship [9]. Busso introduced an additional state variable to model the increased effect on fatigue of more frequent stresses [4], and his model was further studied by Thomas et al [16,17].…”

“…Some researchers have incorporated nonlinear elements with Bannister's linear model to improve prediction capabilities [4,9,16,17]. H ellard et al incorporated a Hill function as a scaling term for stress to model a threshold in the stress-response relationship [9].…”