Anatomical Adaptation for Better Results
Ty Ferrell

Everyone from the recreational beginner to the seasoned elite athlete will need to go through a training phase called AA (anatomical adaptation). It isn't considered the most glamorous nor the most "hard core" training, but it is essential to get the mind, muscles and connective tissue ready to take on the onslaught of later more intense training. AA has many names and takes on different shapes and forms from time to time. The focus of AA gets the mind and body ready and adapted to take on more. This is also the point where training can begin to grow specific to a person’s goals, a person’s potential abilities and weaknesses, and an athlete’s specific sport. AA allows for a safer transition into a regiment without “throwing the lamb to the wolves”. I have seen many trainers and coaches attempt to simply start an athlete in advance forms of training when the athlete knows little about the fundamentals. This will only lead to injuries and bad habits later on. A smarter way is to assess the physical condition of the athlete and take the athlete through a phase of AA to build the necessary skills and strength for the athlete to be successful in training. This goes for fitness enthusiasts as well. I know there are some exciting and dangerous exercise programs that are enticing, but to make sure your body and mind are prepared for the program you need a phase of preparation which comes from AA training.

The best way to handle AA training is using a circuit format. Circuiting allows for the building of “neuromuscular efficiency” as muscle groups learn to cooperate and efficiently get the exercises done. One side note, everyone will have his own individual abilities and faults to work on. It is also wise not to attempt to match someone else’s abilities. During AA training, discrepancies in movements should be addressed, but individually and not in comparison to a “perfect” movement. In other words, be the best you can be without comparing to someone else. Like I stated, a circuit with adequate exercises will work perfectly. Exercises that will aid in AA goals should be used discriminately without wasting time with “filler” exercises. Remember the goal is to prepare your body for whatever lies ahead. So if you are looking to burn the most fat possible later, you will need to train with bigger lifts and less rest. If you are looking to gain mass and strength later, you need to train with bigger lifts and increase rest breaks. The parameters for an AA training phase will vary greatly. Also it depends heavily on level of athleticism and time allotted for training. For a more in depth look at AA training pick up a copy of Proving Ground. Also remember to always train in 3D. Check out the Train in 3D article.