ABSTRACT

In many sports, training for successful competition has become virtually a year-round Endeavour. To assist in better preparation, a competitor's year may be divided into phases such as off-season and in-season, indicating reduced or increased competition commitments, respectively. A number of studies have described the effects of seasons or periods of competition, training, detraining and reduced training on aspects of physical fitness. The purpose of the present study was to examine the differences between speed and strength of National level athletes during competition and off season. The present study was conduct on Forty (40) male runners participating at National level selected from different districts of Karnataka. The age of selected subjects ranged between 16 to 25 years. The required data was collected twice during the competition and off season. Speed was assessed through thirty meters dash test and strength was measured through bent leg sit-ups. Standard procedure was employed in testing the selected subjects for speed and strength. The data were analyzed with the help of tables, charts, pictures and SPSS. Results were presented in a systematic manner appropriately according to research objectives. Pearson’s product moment correlation coefficient was used to examine the relationship between Competition and off seasons with regard to Speed and Strength of National level runners selected for the present investigation. The speed and strength of National level runners between competition and off seasons significantly differed. Both physical fitness parameters declined significantly during off season. There was no maintenance of speed and strength performances during off season.

Keywords: Periodization, Competition Period, Off Season and National level.