Font Romeu 2012

This reoport was originally done for the 'Cockermouth Post'. For more detail on where we stayed, ease of transport, physiological effects etc - just get in contact: sam.ayers@tiscali.co.uk

Font Romeu High Altitude Training Camp.

A report from Sam Ayers of BodyFit PersonalTraining.  Sam is part of the EnglandAthletics National Coach Development Programme (NCDP) which aims to support Level 3 or 4 coaches in their professional development via access to top level support services, technical conferences and workshops.  Sam’s National Coach Mentor is Martin Rush, an ex Cockermouth School pupil who competed in the Barcelona Olympics in the race walking event. 

A few weeks ago I was lucky enough to be part of the England Athletics NCDP visit to Font Romeu.  This is a small village in the French Pyrenees at 1800m where the Great Britain Endurance Squad spends time training in preparation for major events such as the Olympic Games or World Championships.

One of the major benefits of altitude training is the body produces more red blood cells in response to the ‘thinner’ air.  This means that after a while, because more red blood cells have been produced, more oxygen can be carried in the blood and muscles.  This enables the athletes to run more efficiently, run faster and hopefully win medals for Britain at the major games.

The effect of high altitude training is variable from one athlete to another but most athletes begin to respond after about seven days of training, however to see a real effect, a minimum three week training block is advised several times a year.

During the camp, the athletes continued with their usual training but also have the added benefits of the UKAthletics sports doctors, physiotherapists and sports scientists.  Whilst out there, a typical training day might comprise the following:

·         Easy morning run at the lake (30-60 minutes at 2000m)

·         Stretch followed by remedial massage if needed

·         Early afternoon: 30-60 minutes strength and conditioning circuit or drills session

·         Late afternoon: Track session (at 1500m) followed by stretching

Whilst out there I was able to join in with some of the training sessions and experience what it felt like to train at altitude.  I was on track with Helen Clitheroe (2008 Olympic Steeplechase finalist), Hannah England (2011 World Championship silver medalist), Hannah Walker (U23 with a 5000m time of 15.48), James Wilkinson (U23, 5000m: 14.04), Dean Miller (1500m 4.18 mins and  Paralympic hopeful)… to name but a few.  It made me appreciate just how fast world class athletes can run.  I’ve seen it on television, I’ve watched it live in stadiums but there’s nothing quite like being lapped to really bring it home to you!

I’m currently working with all level of athletes; juniors at the Cockermouth School running club, recreational athletes who come to my classes to improve their fitness and some ‘local champions’ who are aiming to improve their national ranking.  Perhaps one day, one of the Cockermouth juniors will be at the Font Romeu training camp.  With a little talent and a lot of hard work, most things are possible.

Picture: Sam Ayers with Athletes Dean Miller, Hannah Walker and Hannah England plus another NCDP coach Don Lennon.  Having done a drills session led by Hannah England.

For a further insight, watch the following: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L7XvtDjoyXE