LTAD provides a framework for developing physical literacy, fitness and competitive ability, using a stage-by-stage approach. Veres Tennis utilizes a tennis modified version of the general LTAD model, for optimal performance. Brief overview of stages:

FUNdamentals

• Learn to Train
• Train to Train
• Train to Compete
• Train to Win

Learn to Train

• Tennis specific training.
• Enhance existing and develop new fundamental movement skills.
• Continue strength development.
• Continue endurance development.
• Continue agility (speed) development.
• Introduce basic flexibility.
• Develop habits for warm up, relaxation, cool down, stretching, hydration and other sports critical elements.
• Periodization may be deployed.
• Competition may begin, however focus is on athletic development over tournament result at ages 8-12

Train to Train

Further develop the ABC, sport specific.

• Train for sport (Tennis)
• Develop aerobic base
• Learn correct weight lifting techniques
• Further knowledge on sports specific elements such as stretching, nutrition, hydration, competition routines, tactics, etc
• Special attention to stretching and flexibility, as well as coordination due to rapid growth
• Competition still dominated by training.
• Ages 12-16

Train to Compete

• Approximately ½ the time spent training is devoted to technical and tactical aspects of tennis.
• Remaining is devoted to competition. Learn to perform and employ tools in competitive environment.
• ABC individually tailored.
• Advanced/multiple periodization, ages 16-18.

Train to Win

• ABC, technical and other ground work complete, focus on maximizing performance.
• Tennis athletes train to peak during key tournaments/events.
• Advanced periodization with competitions and high intensity training timed to avoid burn out.
• Ratio of competition-to-training the highest (still player dependent)
• Ages 18+