The first article this week tackles some important issues regarding the psychological effects on performance. It is arguable that mental skills are every bit as important as conditioning and technical skills. This text looks at some efficient ways to develop mental skills through competitive plans and routines, as well as a discussion of some dangerous mindsets that hinder performance. In our second article, Sustov and Nikitushkin discuss several factors involved in the efficient development of young distance runners. Topics discussed include the influences of growth factors, the biological age and certain developmental processes on the ability of young athletes. This article is an excellent read for coaches attempting to optimize the safe training of their young endurance athletes.

Psychology (General Concepts)

Competition Plans and Routines  By: J. Simons

Theory and Methodology (Endurance)

What a Coach Should Take into Account in the Preparation of Young Runners  By: V. Nikitushkin and F. Sustov