The Science of Canoeing By Richard Cox

In the competition period, the graphs are expected to look much different. Here the objective is a compromise
between advancing the athlete's fitness and preparing him/her for competition.
The greatest training load in this case must be early in the week. Training exercises will be few but intense.
Not all coaches favour rest on the day prior to competition but instead arrange the rest day two days before the
event. In this case, the day before the race now becomes a day of warm-up and mental preparation. No matter
what day is chosen, what is important in planning the weekly schedule leading up to an important event, is that
the paddler arrives at the venue thoroughly prepared both physically and mentally. A common error by less
experienced coaches in this phase is to work athletes too hard too late.
Individual Sessions
Finally, individual training sessions should also be periodised. Every session whether in the gym or on the water
should begin with a warm-up, a gradual intensity of work and a warm-down, towards the end.