you either comply or compete

We can spend a significant amount of time designing training programs that will bring out the best of players. From exercise or drill selection, sets, reps, load - every factor is considered in relation to how to give our players a competitive edge. None of that matters however, unless the players themselves put forth great effort while executing their programmes. “Going through the motions” is not enough, we must “train with intent.”

Intent is defined as your intention or purpose. When you train, what is the purpose of that training? What is inside your mind as you train? Is your intent simply to get through a workout and go home, or is it to push your body to become stronger, faster, more explosive and more resilient?

Many players will show up on time, execute the training program as it is written and therefore make some improvements. These are the ‘compliant’ players. The ‘competitive’ players are different. They show up at the same session, follow the same programme, but are competitive as they do it. They think of and understand the connection between what they are doing in training and in a match - even when it is less obvious. They focus on each repetition with great form and technique and are mindful of their rest time between sets. They attempt to improve upon the last rep both in a session and on previous sessions. Furthermore, they don’t fall into the monotony of repetition, but rather challenge themselves to get out of their own comfort zone by pushing harder and demanding more each time.

Which drill you use, for how long etc. all matter up to a point. All of them require players to execute with great intent - the often missed piece from the puzzle. Do not settle for sloppy, lazy reps. Embrace the struggle that comes with the challenge and remain focused and resilient throughout each session in order to truly improve.