This post (much like the majority of the post that I do) is in reference to studying for the CSCS exam. I noticed that once I read a section, re read taking notes then write it helps the information stick. The thing about the exam is that 1) It is set up in a way where you have to get a certain number of questions correct within a given section to get a passing grade for the entire exam. You could crush the entire exam and get a 69% on a section and fail the entire thing. This means that you can't study in such a way to "own" certain components of a test to carry you over to a passing grade. 2) Details matter. Any detail could be the difference between knowing a question or not knowing a question. For example, rep count and load %. Within the text it has two columns that outline rep count and load %. The test will ask you if someone is training for hypertrophy and lifting at 8 reps what is the desired rep count? The answers will be 78%, 79%, 80% and 81%. Knowing the details is key. By the way the answer is 80%. I say that to say this. As mundane of details of this post is it matters.
Chapter 23 of Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning 4th edition outlines facility design, layout and organization. The first half of the chapter provides the framework in building a facility from scratch. The chapter breaks it down into four phases: Predesign, Design, Construction and Pre-operation phase.
Predesign phase is the first step in building a new facility, and it consists of a needs analysis, feasibility study, master plan and hiring an architect. Needs analysis is an inward look into the type of facility that fits the philosophy of the program. Are you designing a facility that utilizes plyometrics and speed drills? Space should be allocated for plyometrics, and a turf should be built to incorporate speed training. Is your gym going to be geared for powerlifters? Then multiple bench, squat, and deadlift areas with fully stocked weight trees should be built in. Feasibility study incorporates the acronym S.W.O.T. (Strength, Weakness, Opportunities and Threats). If the philosophy of the facility is to incorporate plyometrics and speed drills, then the strength of the facility would be based around those exercises. A weakness of the facility would be powerlifter lifting or bodybuilding style training. Opportunity is the return on investment and the opportunity for growth. At the end of the day building a new facility is a business and at some point, investors would like their money back. Another way to look at it is they are building baseball fields nearby meaning more traffic thus the possibility of new customers. Threats come from other competitors in the area. Is another gym nearby? Another training facility? A master plan is a general plan for all phases of the facility. At this stage in the development, we are doing this; a timeline of events if you will. Hiring an architect is the final step of the predesign phase. Typically, a bidding process would occur, and the best value is selected.
The design phase is broken down into two parts: Finalizing a committee and creating a blueprint. Previous experience with designing a facility with someone that is a Strength and Conditioning Specialist is the ideal candidate to help with creating a blueprint. Designing a facility that can enable athletes to flow from one workout to another will expedite the workout.
Construction phase is typically the longest of the four phases due to the length of time it takes to build a facility. Contractors need to be hired to building the structure, run electrical equipment, plumper's, etc. apart of this process is to ensure construction is progressing as it should, and that equipment is arranged in accordance with the committee's plans.
Once the Construction phase is completed the Pre-operation phase can take place. Pre operation includes hiring a staff, creating a cleaning schedule and policies for the gym. Hiring the right staff (and qualified) can create a positive gym culture that people want to come to. Additionally, having policies in place before operation can smooth out day to day operation of the facality.
No comments:
Post a Comment