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
Ends
Media Contact:
Gabrielle Hinton
Media Liaison Support Officer
Ph: 09 2628900x 8650
Fax: 09 2625759
Email: ghinton@manukau.govt.nz