Movement Prep Phase

Better Aligned by Outwork Sports Performance

210 W Thomas St. Hammond, La 70401

Hello, everyone. This posts is going to be dedicated to the trainers and their clients/athletes. Let's discuss the initial "Movement Prep" Phase that we perform with EVERY training client at Outwork Sports Performance. This is a process that we repeat with every NEW client, whether they are a normal client or an advanced athlete. "Movement Prep" is an integrated approach to prepare the client/athlete physically and mentally for the demands of training and competition through a progressive and specific preparation period.

For instance, if we have an athlete whose goal is to increase vertical, we will begin the process of vertical training with "Movement Prep." As far as exercise selection in this phase, it is most optimal to select movements that are essential to whatever we are training. In this case, the "Movement Prep" phase would be specific to jumping mechanics.

Now, let's discuss the components of the "Movement Prep" phase. Firstly, as trainers we would target Hip Activation (especially with athletes). This, simply put, is to get those dormant muscle groups active and prepared for any type of loading that may occur during training. Secondly, we would focus on Dynamic Stretching. Not to be confused with static stretching, dynamic stretching begins to push boundaries of overall mobility by helping clients unlock movement expression and range of motion. Enhanced mobility will allow the client to generate more force and recruit the correct muscles for specific movements. The third component would be Movement Integration. Movement integration is where structure is applied to movement patterns. Linear or Lateral patterns or even rotational patterns are introduced here. Lastly, the final component is Neural Activation. This final component refers to the neural preparation essential to training. Usually, this is more specific to athlete but anyone can train neural activation. It refers to training how fast your CNS can adapt and process movement.

To conclude, the components of the Movement Prep Phase collectively prepare the client more intense training. No matter what type of client is training, this phase is ESSENTIAL to anyone that is beginning a new training program. This is a phase we never skip at Outwork Sports because we understand that short changing the initial prep phase could potentially allow energy leaks in overall movement subsequently leading to negative performance or injury. Typically, here at Outwork we would begin with a Fitness Consultation which is slightly different from the Movement Prep phase.

If you are looking for individual training, we want to offer any new member a Free Fitness Consultation. You can schedule an Fitness Consultation on our app or at campoutwork.com