Some of you may have heard of or even used training logs. Now the big question is: Are you using a log right now? If your answer is ‘no’ you might want to consider changing your ways. Keeping a meticulous log of practice sessions can help you adjust your training and give you an overview of your progress. It can also help you identify some trouble spots much quicker. Not keeping a training log can sometimes lead to unintentional overtraining which usually leads to injury.
When keeping a training log, it is usually a good idea to keep track of hours skated (incl. time of day that you are skating), jump/spin attempts and outcome (it is usually a good idea for the coach or parent who is familiar with the sport to log that information), detailed program run-throughs and all off-ice training. Depending on how detailed you are willing to get, you can even keep a sleep and nutritional log.
This is usually done in conjunction of a seasonal plan/periodization which will help you reach peak performance when it is needed.
To get started you will need:
– Notebook
– Pen/Pencil
– An idea on how you would like to organize all the data in your notebook
OR
Buy you own training book at www.peakperformanceforfigureskaters.com
Make sure that if you decide to go ahead and keep a log, it is important to make a commitment of using it during every practice. That is the best way to troubleshoot issues that you might face during training.
