For many student-athletes, winter sports season has officially begun. As practices and games ramp up, this is the time we begin transitioning athletes into their in-season training programs.

Unlike off-season or pre-season training - which often focuses on building strength, size, and endurance - in-season training has a different goal: maintenance. We're not trying to push athletes to their limits right now. Instead, the focus shifts to maintaining key performance qualities like strength, power, and speed, while carefully managing overall workload.

Why is this so important? Because during the season, athletes are already under a lot of physical stress from practices and competitions. Adding too much extra load in the gym can increase the risk of overuse and impact-related injuries. But when done right, in-season training can actually be one of the most effective tools for injury prevention. It helps keep muscles and joints strong, supports good movement mechanics, and ensures athletes stay resilient throughout the season.

And if injuries do occur, athletes who have been consistently training tend to recover more quickly and spend less time on the side lines.

In short, smart in-season training isn’t about doing more - it’s about doing what matters most to keep athletes performing at their best and staying healthy all season long.

Get in touch with us today to discuss how we can help your youth athlete with their in-season training.

Trent Pirihi
Head Strength Coach
Inner Athlete Performance