One of the major challenges of programming training for sports teams is adapting to the schedule. It is unusual to have extended periods of training time without interruption due to imposed regulations (i.e., NCAA limitations), exam periods, holidays, etc. Careful review of the calendar year must be done prior to making the annual training plan. Two unavoidable breaks in training throughout the year are the Christmas Holidays and Spring break. These can last from anywhere between one to two weeks depending on the institution and caliber of team. For sports like football and soccer, Christmas break falls right after the competitive season. However, sports like hockey and basketball will typically have to continue their season right through, or immediately following the break. In March, student-athletes are given a one week break which typically involves vacationing and partying for those currently in their off-season. It is of interest to coaches what the effect of these breaks in training have on performance as this can affect programming upon return.
A recent paper by Buchheit et al. (2014) investigated the physiological, psychometric, and performance effects of a two week Christmas break in professional Australian football players. Prior to and following the holidays, physiological data was collected including heart rate responses to various training intensities and skinfold thickness (body fat %). Psychometric data collection pertained to Wellness (sleep quality, soreness, fatigue, mood, stress) and rating of perceived exertion following training sessions. Performance variables included counter-movement jump, running activity during standardized games and isometric mid-thigh pull (peak force). The results showed that there was a slight increase in skin fold thickness but no changes in lean body mass. Wellness data showed a likely decrease in soreness and fatigue scores. Heart rate and rating of perceived exertion responses to a submaximal run were slightly improved. Overall high intensity running during a standardized game was slightly greater following the break while heart rate and RPE responses to the game were unchanged. Lastly, counter movement jump was unchanged but a small increase in mid-thigh pull peak force was observed. This study demonstrated that despite a small increase in body fat percent, the two week holiday did not negatively impact performance.
It’s important to keep in mind that these were professional athletes with an extensive training history. It would be interesting to see a similar study done in collegiate and high school athletes. Younger athletes with a less extensive training history would likely experience some detraining if no effort is made to preserve physical qualities over the break. Many coaches purposely overload their athlete in the weeks preceding a one to two week break knowing that they will have ample recovery time. Though these breaks are inconvenient for sport and training purposes, the psychological benefits gained from the feelings of relief from the daily grind must not be overlooked. It’s likely worth some potential and temporary performance decrements if it means having athletes return feeling fresh with a positive outlook.
Buchheit M, Morgan W, Wallace J, Bode M, and Poulos N. Physiological, psychometric and performance effects of the Christmas break in Australian Football, 2014, IJSPP, In press.
