Option: Improving Performance

5 dot points across 2 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

What are the planning considerations for improving performance?

Application of training principles to a specific sport: integrating progressive overload, specificity, reversibility, variety, training thresholds, warm-up and cool-down into a coherent sport-specific program

A focused answer to the HSC PDHPE Improving Performance dot point on applying training principles. Three worked examples (rugby league forward, swimmer, javelin thrower) showing how the seven principles combine into coherent programs.

6 min answer →

Planning a training program for an athlete: initial planning considerations (performer's profile, performance goals, demands of the sport), sport-specific energy systems, fitness components, training principles, time available

A focused answer to the HSC PDHPE Improving Performance dot point on planning. Initial considerations (performer profile, goals, sport demands), energy systems and fitness components analysis, principle application, and time-budgeting.

7 min answer →

Types of training programs and methods (aerobic, anaerobic, flexibility, strength), application to specific sports, monitoring and adjustment of the training program

A focused answer to the HSC PDHPE Improving Performance dot point on training program types. Aerobic, anaerobic, flexibility, and strength program design, application to specific sports, and how to monitor and adjust.

6 min answer →

What ethical issues are related to improving performance?

Use of drugs to enhance performance: types of performance-enhancing drugs (anabolic steroids, EPO, hGH, peptides, stimulants), the rationale for use, consequences (physical, social, legal), drug testing and the role of WADA, Sport Integrity Australia and ASADA

A focused answer to the HSC PDHPE Improving Performance dot point on drugs in sport. Types of PEDs (anabolic steroids, EPO, hGH, peptides, stimulants), rationale, consequences, and the anti-doping framework (WADA, Sport Integrity Australia).

7 min answer →

Use of technology to enhance performance: equipment and apparel (footwear, swimsuits, bikes), recovery technology, monitoring technology (GPS, heart rate, biomarkers), video and biomechanical analysis, ethical considerations of access and fairness

A focused answer to the HSC PDHPE Improving Performance dot point on technology. Equipment and apparel, recovery technology, GPS and biomarker monitoring, video and biomechanical analysis, and the access/fairness debate.

7 min answer →