CFTS: GPP, SPP, Comp

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@gymrob

Hi all,

I’m really sorry to ask basic questions but I was just wondering…is a similar structure to CFTS (GPP, SPP, Taper, Comp) to be used for all sports but in different quantites and dependent on other factors (athlete in question etc)? Or is this just one example of a periodization model?

Also I have a couple of other questions:

1.What is the actual role of GPP? To raise work capacity and bring about structural changes so specific work in the SPP can be better tolerated? I was wondering how this work actually benefits specific work if adaptations are not specifc to the event? Or is it an indirect effect e.g hypertrophy and tendon strengtherning better prepare the athlete for high intensity work?

2. Does the work done in the GPP continue into the SPP but in maintenance volume?

3. Is the 3/1 schedule used year round and just describe 3 weeks intensification followed by 1 week unload? And does this apply to all aspects whether sprints, med balls, weights?

4. When is the accumulation/intensification microcycle alternating used? And is this just used with weights?

5. With L-S, I take it you start with long distances in the GPP and gradually get shorter into the SPP? If so are gains experienced at the beginning of the GPP (SE) maintained all the way to comp? With S-L when you run the longer distances you are training the short distances before you reach the end distance which is why this confuses me.

Once again, Sorry to ask basic questions…I read up a lot on strength training but I am trying to get a grip on many methods of sports training.

Many thanks for your help,
Rob.

I think a similar structure can be used for other sports. Certainly the principles, albeit with different exercises, are applicable.

The role of the GPP will depend on the level of the athlete, but in general it is to prepare the athlete for the specific work to come in the SPP and Comp phases. Whether this means an athlete needs to build his general fitness, hypertrophy, tendon strength, or other capacities will depend on the athlete.

Some of the work in the GPP can continue into the SPP. Tempo will capacity continue to improve; Jumps and Weights will continue to increase in intensity; Medball throws will often continue, but perhaps in lower doses; long hills sometimes are included on Saturdays; and of course speed work is pervasive in all phases. The key of course is progression.

The 3/1 schedule, I believe, is used year round. The exercises and quantities that are unloaded will depend on the plan and goals of the block.

Not sure on #4.

I think Charlie will state that SE in the GPP is inherently not possible because the level of speed required for the given SE is not developed yet. So the GPP for L-S will be longer than S-L, focusing a lot of tempo as well as hills for speed so as to develop the general fitness and initial acceleration required for the first SE runs that will begin in SPP. Some users also prescribe a period of Intensive Tempo to bridge the gap between GPP and SPP and tempo and SE.

Thoughts?