Did you know that going for a run is not necessarily the ideal preparation for the sports season?

Mathew Wood, Recreation Programmer at the Howick Recreation Centre, says that too many people are not conditioning themselves enough before embarking on a sports programme.

Matthew believes there is a need for ‘sports specific training’, which entails building up specific aspects of fitness related to the sport you are about to participate in.

He says,” I am really concerned that people are not putting in enough preparation and this can mean injuries when participating in their chosen sport.

“This is where the Howick Recreation Centre can help. We offer a service of specific testing followed by personalised programmes to develop strength, speed, agility and anaerobic fitness, flexibility and plyometrics.”

Case studies have been done by Hockey New Zealand and New Zealand Junior Athletics which have proven the success of sports specific training.

As part of his studies towards a Bachelor of Sport and Recreation at AUT Mathew carried out his specific testing programme on the Auckland Cricket team.

Mathew says, “Even Wayne Smith, the All Black coach, works with his team developing programmes specifically tailored to specific positions, such as concentrating on lower back strength for stamina in his forwards.

“Come along, get conditioned for the summer, and be a fit Kiwi.”

For further information on the programme phone Mathew at the Howick Recreation Centre
Phone: 537 6029

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