Physiology and Biomechanics Sections B and C 3. Specialised Training Plyometrics Engaging stretch reflex (Stretching the muscle before it contracts, so that it contracts with greater force). When the muscle is stretched, it is detected by specialised receptors called muscle spindles. Immediate contraction of muscle being overstretched. This concentric contraction is more powerful and also prevents overstretching amd injury. How can this info be applied? Examples If the ball is reaching the correct height and horizontal distance on a corner kick, goal kick or rugby kick to touch or goal kick.

Physiology and Biomechanics Sections B and C PNF Stretching Increasing flexibility will increase the range of movement around the joint (also reduces the risk of injury). Uses alternating contraction and relaxation movements. It helps facilitates the body’s muscular inhibition. Use of CRAC technique (Contract-Relax-Antagonist-Contract) Isometric contractions completed immediately before a passive stretch to help achieve autogenic inhibition. Therefore a muscle is able to be stretched further before the muscle spindles are activated, and hence increased flexibility. Golgi Tendon Organs Autogenic Inhibition (when muscles relax) When muscular tension is too high the GTO is activated to relax the muscle to prevent injury. With more PNF stretching it will prelong activation of GTO and hence the muscle can be under more tension before autogenic inhibition occurs.

Physiology and Biomechanics Sections B and C Altitude Training Why would we use this? For Long duration events used for improving endurance and concentration on technique for improved frequency of executing correct technique. Could be used to increase secretion of EPO and therefore increased production of RBCs and hence carry more oxyhaemoglobin to muscles for synthesis of ATP. Therefore increased stamina. Recovery Techniques (To reduce inflammation and improve technique for next time) Cold bath treatments – reduce inflammation and swelling around joints Massage Proprioceptive training- Wobble boards/ power plates Hyperbaric chambers – Used with a higher PO2 (partial pressure of oxygen to aid recovery) Hypoxic Tent ( lower PO2 similar effects to altitude training).