Quick questions on Planning a training program: HSC PDHPE Improving Performance

7short Q&A pairs drawn directly from our worked dot-point answer. For full context and worked exam questions, read the parent dot-point page.

What is preparatory phase (base)?

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The foundation phase. Higher volume, lower intensity. Builds the underlying physiological qualities (aerobic capacity for endurance sports, general strength for strength sports). Lasts months for most athletes.

What is specific phase?

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Increasing specificity. Training resembles competition more closely. Volume may decline; intensity rises. Sport-specific skills and tactics are emphasised.

What are microcycles, mesocycles, macrocycles?

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A macrocycle for an HSC athlete in 1500m running might run from late summer (base building) through autumn (lactate work) through winter (race-pace) through spring (taper and championship racing) into early summer (transition).

What are energy systems?

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What proportion of the sport relies on each system?

What are fitness components?

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Which physical capacities does the sport reward?

What are skill demands?

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Technical and tactical skills the sport requires.

What are psychological demands?

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Pressure handling, decision-making, sustained focus, team dynamics.

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