Source: Bournemouth_Echo
Cherries: Fitness a measure of team's success
FORWARD-thinking Cherries have left no stone unturned in their bid to gain promotion from League Two this season.[LNB] While performances on the pitch have dominated the headlines, the work which goes on off it has been a key factor in the success, according to manager Eddie Howe.[LNB] As well as hours of traditional football coaching on the training ground, Cherries have utilised some of the latest sports science techniques in order to get an edge on their opponents.[LNB] Fitness guru Jon Dalzell, who previously worked with Howe during eight years as a coach with Portsmouth, has introduced a schedule and series of measures which, together with the work of physiotherapist Steve Hard, have kept Cherries' stars in shape.[LNB] Howe's squad are put through stringent fitness tests on a fortnightly basis to determine whether their levels have improved or deteriorated, which gives Dalzell the opportunity to keep on top of the players' training performance. He says it leaves no hiding place in a bid to help the team perform to their maximum.[LNB] As well as improving their aerobic capacity, the players have also been put through their paces in the gym, with muscle strengthening work, not only improving performance, but also helping to prevent injuries.[LNB] The Southsea-based Cherries conditioning coach told the Echo: What we're trying to do is determine the optimum training mode for each player. They are all different and do not all respond to the same things. One size does not fit all.[LNB] The group as a collective have been fantastic very receptive and hard-working.[LNB] When you look at our fitness data we compare with top Serie A and Premier League teams in terms of aerobic capability. It's a key component of football and we tick the boxes.[LNB] Howe believes the scientific approach has been a huge benefit to his players.[LNB] Discussing Dalzell's work, he said: He's been a big part of the success. The game is getting quicker, the players are getting more athletic and if you can just get a little edge on your competitors even if it's an extra four or five per cent out of the players then I think it's well worth the effort.[LNB] Dalzell added: With a small squad, we have to try to make sure they are fit enough, robust enough and not too tired.[LNB] It's a challenge, particularly with the amount of football they play. In this league, it is very fast and furious and physically demanding, but they had a great pre-season and it has paid dividends.[LNB] We try to make sure they have the best training, the best strength work and the best preparation we can deliver.[LNB] The tests Cherries' players undergo include heart rate monitoring, body fat analysis and measures on the amount they sweat. The approach also takes nutrition into consideration.[LNB]
