A physical education teacher is planning a training programme for a group of students who play different sports. (a) Define the term circuit training. [2] (...

(a) Circuit training is a method of training that involves a series of exercises or stations set up in a circuit. [1] The performer moves from one station to the next, completing a set time or number of repetitions at each station before moving on. The exercises typically target different muscle groups or fitness components to avoid fatigue in any one area. [1]

(b) Two advantages of circuit training for a group playing different sports (any two): [2]

• It can be adapted to suit different sports and fitness needs by changing the exercises at each station (e.g. press-ups for upper body strength, shuttle runs for speed). [1]
• It can improve both muscular strength and cardiovascular fitness within the same session if designed with a mix of strength and aerobic stations. [1]
• It can be done with minimal equipment and in a relatively small space. [1]
• It keeps training varied, interesting and motivating because the performer is constantly changing activity. [1]

(c) Fartlek training differs from continuous training because fartlek involves varying the speed and intensity throughout the session (mixing sprints, jogs and steady-paced running), whereas continuous training is performed at a steady, constant pace throughout with no variation in intensity. [1+1]

A sport where fartlek would benefit the performer: football (or hockey). [1] In a football match, players constantly change speed and direction - sprinting to chase the ball, jogging to recover, and running at moderate pace to maintain position. Fartlek training replicates these varied demands, preparing the body for the unpredictable changes in pace that occur during a game. [1]

(d) Weight training is suitable for a shot putter because it develops muscular strength and power, which are the primary fitness components needed to throw the shot as far as possible. [1] The explosive action of putting the shot requires maximum force to be generated in a very short time, which weight training directly develops. [1]

The performer could apply the principle of progressive overload by gradually increasing the weight lifted over time as their body adapts to the current load. [1] They could also increase the number of repetitions or sets performed, or reduce rest periods, to continue challenging the muscles beyond their current capacity and drive further strength gains. [1]