Competition-day priming practices of South-East Asian track-and–field coaches: Results from a cross sectional survey

Abstract

This survey study investigated the priming strategies used by track-and-field coaches in South-East Asia. The anonymous online survey fielded questions across themes of: 1) demographic information, 2) prevalence and nature of priming strategies prescribed, 3) priming strategies used, and 4) challenges faced when implementing priming strategies. Forty participants (mean age: 37.6 ± 9.86 years; coaching experience: 10.1 ± 8.43 years) completed the survey, including head coaches (n = 15), assistant coaches (n = 11), trainers (n = 9), and other coaching staff (n = 5). Participants specialised primarily in track events—sprints and hurdles (70%), middle distance (35%), long distance (15%)—and field events—jumps (12.5%) and throws (5%). Plyometrics (87.5%) was the most frequently used priming strategy, followed by high-intensity strength training (67.5%), flexibility and mobility (65%), and weightlifting derivatives (42.5%). Plyometrics, high-intensity strength training, and weightlifting derivatives were generally implemented 1–2 days before competition, while flexibility and mobility were implemented 1–2 h pre-competition. Considerations for successful implementation of the priming strategies included equipment and venue limitations, time restraints, biological and training age, and the athlete's willingness and mentality. For practical application, coaches could incorporate plyometric routines, consisting of 3–4 sets with 1–5 reps, into their athletes’ training schedules 1–2 days before competition. Priming strategies used should consider athletes’ developmental stages and logistical factors (i.e., equipment availability and event time constraints) to support optimal competition performance.