Adjustments in training routine coming out of lockdown

Adjustments in training routine coming out of lockdown

by Emma Carney (AUS) -
Number of replies: 0

Dear Athletes,

As lockdown restrictions are lifted across the world, we are all beginning the gradual return to training.  Last week covered the ‘when’, ‘how’, ‘what’, and ‘why’ of returning to outdoor training and discussed the change in behaviour you will be required to adopt.  It is important to remember you cannot return to training where you left off not only with regard to ensuring you avoid possible injury, but also to ensure you behave responsibly with regard to reducing the risk of Covid-19 spread. As is always the case, it is important you adhere to the rules and requirements of your relevant health authorities.  What you are able to do in your location will differ from what other athletes are able to do in different locations. 

What is common across all locations are the steps and changes in behaviour before, during and after training that you will need to adopt.  Everyone will need to adjust to this ‘new normal’ as the world eases itself out of lockdown.

These important adjustments are as follows – 

  • Before and After Activity
    • Do not attend training if unwell, family members are unwell, or if you show any of the signs of - sore throat, fever, cough, shortness of breath and fatigue.
    • Do not use communal changing facilities or showers.  Shower and change at home.
    • Wash and sanitise your hands.
    • Plan a gradual return to training to minimise the risk of injury (refer last week’s email).
    • Be prepared so you can ‘get in, train, and get out’.
    • If you have been tested for Covid-19 do not attend training until you are cleared.
    • If using a venue to train use the designated single entry and exit point and sanitise before entry and exit.
    • Athlete/coaches and support staff must not have travelled internationally within the last 14 days.
  • During Activity
    • Follow group number and activity restrictions in your community.
    • Adhere to venue activity restrictions.
    • Promote social distancing by staggering activities or dividing into smaller groups.
    • Bring your own items – water bottles, nutrition, towel, equipment.
    • Practice good personal hygiene.
    • Arrive ready to train, warm up in smaller groups or alone.
    • Clean down equipment or other shared surfaces before and after use with antibacterial wipes/spray.
    • Keep personal items separate from others items.
    • Maintain social distancing practices throughout training sessions whenever possible. 

There may seem to be a lot to adhere to, but it is all common sense and we have all been adjusting our lifestyles recently to these simple yet important changes. It is important to remember we all have a responsibility to adopt practices that ensure the safety of all involved and reduce the spread of Covid-19.

Enjoy your training! 

Emma


Useful links – 

AIS Framework

Sport Australia return to sport