JOHN McMAHON: 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 & be mindful of the commitment & sacrifice our club & county players invest. They do so in the pursuit of individual improvement & 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 Training: 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.

Skill-Based Training: 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 Training: 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.

An Example Weekly Training Routine: (Brief Overview )

Let’s take a closer look at how many GAA players structure their training throughout the week & the demands this places 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 & protocols are in place to optimise performance on the field.

Monday: Recovery mode is in full swing. Players take charge of their own recovery, utilizing 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 & 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 on Thursdays. Players take a day off to relax, engage in alternative activities, and rejuvenate their bodies & minds for the challenges ahead.

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

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