At Shannon Clinic – Melbourne Chiropractic and Sports Care, we specialize in Training Load Management to optimize athletic performance and minimize injury risk.
The Importance of Monitoring Training Loads
Training load encompasses the cumulative physiological, psychological, and mechanical stressors placed on the body over time. Contrary to common belief, high training levels do not inherently increase injury risk; rather, sudden fluctuations in load are the primary concern. Research indicates that abrupt changes in training intensity or volume can lead to non-functional overreaching, illness, or injury.
In 2016, Blanch and Gabbett devised the acute:chronic workload ratio to help identity these changes in load and to help predict what level of change in load is acceptable, as well as what levels are likely to result in subsequent injury. Their workload ratio has been applied in a variety of sports, in particularly junior elite tennis which showed that players who had an acute load spike in their current weeks training load, were more likely to sustain an injury in the subsequent weeks compared to those who kept their load changes within a ‘safe’ or ‘sweet’ zone.
Our Approach to Training Load Monitoring
Dr. Nicholas Shannon has developed a personalized load monitoring program, initially rooted in endurance sports and now adapted across various disciplines. This program tracks key metrics such as:
- Volume: Total training time.
- Duration: Session length or mileage.
- Perceived Effort: Athlete’s subjective intensity rating.
- Impact Load: Quantified through weight step measurements.
Additionally, sport-specific factors like the number of jumps, serves, or take-offs are monitored. By comparing actual versus projected loads and analyzing week-to-week variations, we ensure athletes remain within an optimal training zone, thereby reducing injury risk and enhancing performance.
Who Can Benefit from Training Load Monitoring?
Our program is ideal for individuals engaged in sports at any level—recreational, semi-professional, or professional—who aim to prevent injuries and boost performance. It is particularly beneficial for endurance athletes, those participating in long-season sports, or individuals experiencing performance declines or recurrent overuse injuries, such as tendinopathies.
Collaborative Care for Optimal Results
At Shannon Clinic, we collaborate closely with athletes, their coaches, and support teams to develop and implement tailored load monitoring strategies. This team-oriented approach ensures that training programs are customized to meet specific needs and timelines, whether preparing for a marathon or competing at national or international levels.
To find out more about the training load monitoring program and services the Shannon Clinic – Melbourne Chiropractic and Sports Care provides you can call, email or us. Alternatively, you can book an appointment online below. If you are interested in learning more about sports performance optimization, injury prevention and recovery our blog has you covered.
Contact Us
To learn more about our Training Load Management services or to schedule an appointment, please contact Shannon Clinic at Suite 9.16, Level 9, 220 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000.
- Phone: 03 9041 9783
- Email: info@shannonclinic.com.au
Experience the benefits of expert training load monitoring at Shannon Clinic, where your health and performance are our top priorities. load monitoring at Shannon Clinic, where your health and performance are our top priorities.