1. Knows that exercise is stress.  An athlete must rest and recover to build.

2. Will increase intensity slowly (not > 10%/week). (Coaches often coach to the highest common denominator.  This puts the lowest fitness at risk.)

3. Will build a base of fitness: gradually building intensity, peaking in season.

4. Will alternate hard days with rest days.

5. Will encourage injury prevention. Look for warning signals.  “Listen to your body.  That’s why God gave you nerve endings.”

6. Will use the right equipment.

7. Will cross train.  Vary surface or terrain.

8. Will incorporate flexibility and strength, range of motion and core as well as aerobic and anaerobic training.

9. Will teach proper nutrition and hydration practices and hold athletes accountable for following them.