Abstract des Autors

A spectrum of approaches exists among strength coaches as to the degree of specificity required to optimize training transfer to targeted athletic performance. The “problem” with specificity is that it is in conflict with overload. Some giving precedence to specificity find a solution in applying overload through variation, whereas others seek to traditionally overload 1 or 2 elements of the sporting movement. Advocates of general training more readily sacrifice specificity for the development of capacities. In applying these contrasting approaches to the hypothetical target task of accelerative sprinting, this review combines evidence- and logic-led arguments to evaluate the efficacy of each. As such, a summary of literature is presented. In most contexts, a mixed-methods approach remains recommended as degree of transfer to targeted athletic performance appears as dependent on athlete status as it is on the specificity of the training task.