General Pre-Season Talk 2011/2012

[Q.]

So how many clubs are going overseas/have already gone.

Kangaroos & Gold Coast already been to the US, Carlton been to Abu Dhabi. Collingwood have left for Arizona. Know the Power are off to NZ & Richmond to Arizona.

Is there any proof these altitude training camps help? Although I believe Richmond's is in Arizona but not altitude based?

Geelong have never bothered and have had as much success as anyone recently.

Theoretically it is suggested that the benefits of altitude training only last for up to 120 days. So, unless clubs have altitude chambers as part of their club facilities (like Collingwood) to sustain the effects, the altitude training will only be of benefit during pre-season.

I wouldn't think these camps ultimately define success, but it would be in all clubs' interests to seek percentile advantages.

[hearts on fire]

17 players currently training with new clubs, or having another crack at same club.

http://www.afl.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/208/newsid/126619/default.aspx

[Psyber]

Altitude Training:
Sanderson was on radio this morning and was asked whether the Crows were considering it.
He said they were still weighing up the idea, but that it offered only short term gains without facilities at the club, and that there was some risk of harm to players.
In view of the cost, he said, you had to decide whether it was worth it in the longer run, or whether the money could be used better in another way.

Basically the high altitude training, or just living at higher altitude, stimulates the production of more red blood cells.
These cells live about 120 days so then you are back to normal, and thicker blood means more potential for circulatory problems and clotting in the meantime.
Erythropoietin doping at home would achieve the same effect (and could be repeated) and is cheaper.
However, I think it has been banned in all sport. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erythropoietin

[hearts on fire]

Chris Judd done some damage to his shoulder at training, having scans so don't know full extent yet.

http://www.afl.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/208/newsid/126720/default.aspx

Essendon don't have anywhere to train at the minute either.... great organisation there

http://www.afl.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/208/newsid/126719/default.aspx

[Psyber]

Essendon don't have anywhere to train at the minute either.... great organisation there
http://www.afl.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/208/newsid/126719/default.aspx

I hear there is still a spot vacant in Tasmania..