Online Comparative Study Task

*Students Must Read Before Attempting the

Activity*
HSC Core 2 Factors Affecting Performance
Syllabus Outcomes
Student Learn About:
types of training and training
methods aerobic, e.g.
continuous, Fartlek, aerobic
interval, circuit anaerobic,
e.g. anaerobic interval,
flexibility, e.g. static, ballistic,
PNF, dynamic strength
training, e.g. free/fixed
weights, elastic, hydraulic
principles of training
progressive overload
specificity
reversibility
variety training thresholds
warm up and cool down
nutritional considerations
pre-performance, including
carbohydrate loading
during performance postperformance
supplementation
vitamins/minerals
protein
caffeine
creatine products

Students Learn to:

assess the relevance of the types of
training and training methods for a
variety of sports by asking
questions such as: which types of
training are best suited to different
sports?
which training method(s) would be
most appropriate? Why?
how would this training affect
performance?
analyse how the principles of
training can be applied to both
aerobic and resistance training
compare the dietary requirements
of athletes in different sports
considering pre, during and postperformance needs critically
Analyse the evidence for and
against supplementation for
improved performance

Threshold Concepts

Research, analyse and interpret information through the

process of observing, researching and critical thinking.
Communicating written and verbal thoughts between partners
and class address subject specific content.
Working to achieve peer understanding of
content
Use technology to research

HSC Exam Question Links

2015 paper
Why are both objective and subjective performance measures appropriate in the assessment
of an athletic performance? (5 Marks)
Why is it important for an athlete to develop the elements of performance? (8 Marks)
2014 paper
Outline the post-performance dietary considerations of an endurance athlete (3 Marks).
2013 paper
Describe THREE characteristics of a learner that can influence his/her ability to learn a new
skill. (4 Marks)
What are the advantages and disadvantages of protein supplementation and creatine
supplementation for improved athletic performance? (5 Marks)
2012 Paper
How can THREE principles of training be applied to improve strength? Provide examples.
(6 Marks)

Links to the Real World

Planning out good fitness programs is key in promoting and maintaining good health. Fitness
programs are a great way to make sure that you are getting the most out of your workouts and
that you are targeting all your muscle groups as well as getting a good cardio workout. Many
people exercise but are not getting the full benefits that exercise can provide. By planning out
some fitness programs you can make sure that you are not wasting your time.
Fitness programs are basically a laid out plan of what exercise you do on what day and in
what order. If you are participating in a sport outside of school or have a set goal in mind that
you would like to achieve then developing a training program is an essential tool in achieving
your goals. There are many websites online that are dedicated to helping you come up with
your own fitness program based on various factors. However, you should always consult with
your doctor before starting any fitness programs. Injury is very common if you are not
careful.
Nutrition can help enhance athletic performance. An active lifestyle and exercise routine,
along with eating well, is the best way to stay healthy. The ideal diet for an athlete is not very
different from the diet recommended for any healthy person. However, the amount of each
food group you need will depend on:
-The type of sport
-The amount of training you do
-The amount of time you spend doing the activity or exercise.
Overall, it is important for energy intake and expenditure, recovery and maintenance of active
lifestyle.

Activity Instructions
As part of this online comparative study, students must view/download the 2 PDF
articles embedded on this site.
Document one is a training program for a weight lifting athlete.
Document two is a training program for a soccer athlete.
After Analysing the two training programs students are to:
1. Compare and Contrast any differences and/or similarities between both training
program articles. (1 page)
2. Research and Create a nutritional plan for each of the sport articles.
3. Compare and Contrast any differences or similarities in each nutrition plan. E.g.
Extra carbohydrate loading? Protein supplementation? Meals per day? (1 Page)
*Students are to print out and bring in their work to their next lesson Wednesday period 4 to
discuss during class*.

Note:
The purpose of this comparative study task is to enable students to examine 2 different
case studies selected.
Analysis of the similarities and differences of each article.
Students design and implement training plans to improve performance. Design
psychological strategies and nutritional plans in response to individual performance
needs.
Devises methods of gathering, interpreting and communicating information about
health and physical activity concepts

JOURNAL ARTICLES
ARTICLE 1 - Preliminary Evaluation of an After-School Resistance Training Program for
Improving Physical Fitness in Middle School-Age Boys
ARTICLE 2 - Effects of 10-week soccer training program on anthropometric,
psychological, technical skills and specific performance parameters in youth soccer players

References
Faigenbaum, Avery D., McFarland, Jim E., Johnson, Larry, Kang, Jie, Bloom,
Jason, Ratamess, Nicholas A., & Hoffman, Jay R. (2007). Preliminary evaluation of
an after-school resistance training program for improving physical fitness in middle
school-age boys. (Author abstract). Perceptual and Motor Skills, 104(2), 407.
Miranda, R.E.E.P.C., Antunes, H.K.M., Pauli, J.R., Puggina, E.F., & Da Silva, A.S.R.
(2013). Effects of 10-week soccer training program on anthropometric,
psychological, technical skills and specific performance parameters in youth soccer
players. (Report). Science & Sports, 28(2), 81.