Success for an athlete depends on their ability to perform at their best when it matters most Performance depends on the athlete's body having acquired the most beneficial adaptations for their sport But how can an athlete or coach be sure that training results in the desired adaptations? Training can be defined as the stimulation of biological adaptations that result in an improvement in performance in a given task Athletes & coaches have learned mostly through trial & error how to exploit the ability of the body to adapt in response to potentially harmful stimuli The challenge lies in applying the right stimuli at the right intensity for the right amount of time muscles respond to working more forcefully than normal by becoming bigger stronger & more resistant to damage but over-training can lead to injury This book provides the information necessary to decide on the most effective way to improve performance underpinned by an understanding of the mechanisms behind adaptation & thoroughly supported by scientific research The Physiology of Training for High Performance begins by introducing the reader to the concept & physiological bases of adaptation The authors then delve into training for different outcomes for example enhanced endurance or speed & relate the discussion to various sports & events Finally the authors summarize the latest research surrounding additional factors that affect an athlete's performance & potential including tapering nutrition & body composition Online Resource Centre The Online Resource Centre to accompany The Physiology of Training for High Performance features For students BL Multiple choice questions to check understanding & aid revision BL Links to sources of further information For registered adopters of the book BL Figures from the book available for download