Athletics: On the way to a new training concept

In view of the global performance explosion in elite sport and the debate about German competitiveness, the German Athletics Association (DLV) has developed a fundamentally new digital framework training concept.

As co-author of the concept, Professor Harald Lange, Chair of Sports Science at the University of Würzburg, emphasises that the success of tomorrow is based on a data-based departure from outdated drill models and a close integration of science and practical experience.

Digital tools play a central role in the concept. These include, for example, analysis systems for movements and techniques, sensors for acceleration and speed measurements or software for analysing launch angles or take-off speeds.

Participatory further development: trainers as drivers of innovation

A novelty in the framework training concept is the systematic involvement of the grassroots: the practical experience of trainers serves as a decisive driver for the continuous further development of the concept.

"We rely on a lively dialogue. Through an accompanying, systematic survey, we are pooling the expertise of those who work on the ground every day in order to continuously improve the digital framework training concept," explains Professor Lange. The aim is to create a dynamic system that synergistically combines scientific evidence with the knowledge of trainers from elite and junior sport.

Paradigm shift: evidence-based approach instead of mechanical drill

The digital framework training concept breaks with the traditional model of early, mass-oriented specialisation.

"The digital transformation makes it possible for the first time to manage the principles of physical attitude and value-based integrity in real time," says Lange. The focus is on long-term performance development, which is first and foremost committed to personality development in training and through training ("developing attitude"). The aim is to avoid orthopaedic strain, for example, through individualised load control and to tap into performance reserves through video-based diagnostics.

"Smart training": data- and experience-based excellence to combat the decline in medals

Instead of generalised guidelines, the focus is shifting to individual performance profiles. "We now know, for example, that neuronal speed and biomechanical efficiency can be real drivers for Olympic medals," says Lange, who is also a member of the DLV's Advisory Board for Science and Training.

Transfer into practice: the "Living Lab" model

Professor Lange is already implementing the new standards operationally. Among other things, he is working with a high-performance U16 training group in the athletics department of TSV Remsfeld in North Hesse. He is also cooperating in this field with the training camps run by the Rush Athletics club in Malta.

These "living labs" serve to evaluate the practicality of digital tools under high-performance conditions and to establish science-based prototyping for the training of the future.

"Through dialogue between trainers, scientists and technology experts, we want to find out, for example, which force plates deliver valid results for the development of jumping power during training," explains Harald Lange. We are also investigating which sensors and light barrier systems provide informative data on the throwing angles of the hammer, javelin, shot and discus. All with a view to practical relevance, didactic fit and manageability in everyday training.

"Our long-term project concept will accompany Germany's Olympic ambitions in the coming years," says the professor. His team is open to further partners for the realisation of the project, be it technology companies or athletics coaches from the field.

Contact

Prof Dr Harald Lange, Chair of Sports Science, University of Würzburg, T +49 151 10388104, harald.lange@uni-wuerzburg.de

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DLV: Digital framework training concept in focus (in German)