John McMahon: A week inside the life of a ‘modern’ GAA player

EVER wondered how much time a ‘modern’ GAA player dictates to their sport? The time they invest to be at the top of their game?

Below I have outlined some of these demands our GAA players face and the time they invest.

I believe it’s worth reminding ourselves and be mindful of the commitment and sacrifice our players invest. They do so in the pursuit of individual improvement and for their team’s opportunity to be successful.

Physical, skill-based and tactical training:

GAA players follow a comprehensive training schedule that encompasses three key components: physical, skill-based and tactical training. Each aspect is crucial in preparing them for the challenges they’ll face on game day.

Physical: GAA players undergo rigorous strength and conditioning workouts to ensure they maintain peak fitness levels. These sessions focus on building power, strength, endurance and overall physical resilience.

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Skill-based: Mastering the intricacies of the game is a vital part of GAA player development. They spend time practicing their skills to sharpen their technique and improve their game performance.

Tactical: GAA is a strategic sport, and players need to be tactically astute. They engage in training sessions that focus on team strategies, positioning and decision-making in various game situations.

Here is an example of a weekly training routine:

Let’s take a closer look at how many GAA players structure their training throughout the week and the demands placed upon them.

Sunday: Game day. Some players engage in light exercise or mindfulness activities to get in the right mindset before the match. Proper nutrition timing and protocols are in place to optimise performance on the field.

Monday: Recovery mode is in full swing. Players take charge of their own recovery, utilising techniques like Pilates, yoga, massage and ice baths to promote healing and relaxation.

Tuesday: After a couple of recovery days, players kick off their training week with a light flush session upper body power and strength session. This could be followed by some additional skill-based training to fine-tune their technique.

Wednesday: Pitch session. The most intense training session of the week. Players push their limits during skill and match practice sessions to fine-tune their abilities ahead of the upcoming weekend game. Lower body strength and power training also take place to enhance performance on the field.

Thursday: Rest and recovery are key. Players take a day off to relax, engage in alternative activities and rejuvenate their bodies and minds for the challenges ahead.

Friday: The pre-game session. This is all about sharpening skills, tactics and maintaining intensity. Players focus on the game-plan to prepare themselves mentally and physically for the game.

Saturday: Recovery mode and refuelling for gameday is in full flow. Players take charge of their own recovery, utilising techniques massage and ice baths to promote healing and recovery.