On the 3rd of July 2006 the First Team Squad of Plymouth Argyle Football Club visited Marjon for the assessment of their player’s physical fitness, prior to the competitive season. This had been arranged through Keith Jones who had been proactive in highlighting Marjon’s facilities, expertise, technical support and equipment that could benefit Professional Football Clubs. Sport and Exercise Physiologists Saul Bloxham, Caroline Brokenshire, Chris Smietanka and ASC graduate Ian Davis, conducted a number of scientifically rigorous physical fitness tests with the players over a one day period. Tests included indications of aerobic and anaerobic endurance, strength, speed agility and power. Players’ anthropometry was also measured. Each test was selected to reflect the physiological demands of football.
Following the testing day each player was provided with an individual physical fitness profile that could be used to prescribe training, identify areas of strength, monitor squad fitness levels and identify areas for improvement. Following the success of this initial testing session, players are to be profiled at least twice yearly in order to evaluate the effectiveness of training and establish base line fitness levels for all new and existing players joining Plymouth Argyle. Advanced personalised testing is to be used to assist in the effective rehabilitation of injured players in the future.
Lance Doggart
# posted by A Sociologist : 9:41 AM
