Athlete Development & Performance Flashcards

Which training principle states that the body adapts specifically to the type of demand placed on it?

Answer: Specificity

The specificity principle (SAID) says adaptations match the exact stimulus applied.

A coach gradually increases training load each week, then schedules a lighter week to recover. This is best described as:

Answer: Periodized progressive overload

Progressive overload with planned recovery weeks is a core feature of periodization.

Which of the following is the most common sign of overtraining syndrome in a young athlete?

Answer: Persistent fatigue and declining performance

Overtraining typically shows as prolonged fatigue and performance decline despite continued training.

Which energy system primarily fuels a 100-meter sprint?

Answer: Phosphagen (ATP-PC) system

Maximal efforts under about 10 seconds rely mainly on the ATP-PC system.

What is the main purpose of a dynamic warm-up before practice?

Answer: Raise body temperature and prepare movement patterns

Dynamic warm-ups elevate muscle temperature and rehearse movements to prepare for activity.

Which nutrient is the body's preferred fuel source for high-intensity exercise?

Answer: Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates supply glycogen, the fastest-available fuel for intense effort.

Rest days are important in a training plan primarily because:

Answer: Adaptation and tissue repair occur during recovery

Fitness gains occur as the body recovers and adapts after training stress.

Long-Term Athlete Development models emphasize that early specialization in a single sport before puberty often leads to:

Answer: Higher risk of burnout and overuse injury

Early specialization is linked to burnout, overuse injuries, and dropout.

The period of fastest growth in height during adolescence is called:

Answer: Peak height velocity

Peak height velocity marks the time of maximal growth rate and affects coordination and injury risk.

Which type of training is most appropriate to emphasize with young children (ages 6–9)?

Answer: Fundamental movement skills in fun settings

Young athletes benefit most from developing fundamental movement skills through play.

Is resistance training safe for youth athletes when properly supervised and age-appropriate?

Answer: Yes, it can improve strength and reduce injury risk

Major sports medicine organizations support supervised youth resistance training.

Relative age effect in youth sports refers to:

Answer: Older players within an age group gaining selection advantages

Athletes born earlier in the cutoff year are often bigger and more likely to be selected.

Which approach best supports athlete development in AAU youth programs?

Answer: Balancing skill development, participation, and fun

AAU emphasizes participation and development alongside competition.

Which factor most influences an athlete's intrinsic motivation?

Answer: Feelings of competence, autonomy, and belonging

Self-determination theory identifies competence, autonomy, and relatedness as key drivers.

Which is the best indicator of adequate hydration during training?

Answer: Pale yellow urine

Pale yellow urine generally indicates good hydration status.

How many hours of sleep do most adolescent athletes need per night for optimal recovery?

Answer: 8–10 hours

Teens generally need 8–10 hours of sleep for growth, recovery, and performance.

Which snack is best consumed 30–60 minutes before a game for quick energy?

Answer: A banana or other easily digested carbohydrate

Easily digested carbohydrates provide energy without stomach discomfort.

After intense exercise, the best recovery nutrition combines:

Answer: Carbohydrates and protein

Carbohydrates replenish glycogen and protein supports muscle repair.

Which is a symptom of heat exhaustion?

Answer: Heavy sweating, weakness, and nausea

Heat exhaustion features heavy sweating, weakness, headache and nausea; hot dry skin with confusion suggests heatstroke.

Female athlete triad involves low energy availability, menstrual dysfunction, and:

Answer: Decreased bone density

The triad includes low energy availability, menstrual disturbances, and low bone mineral density.