Speed Camp: Elite Athletes

No coach has ever praised a performance by saying, "Great job, but try slowing down next time." In the realm of high-performance sport, speed takes center stage. This is precisely why we brought elite land-based athletes to collaborate with James Mortimer, New Zealand's premier sprint coach. Our shared goal? To craft athletes who aren't just fast but are the epitome of speed.

James Mortimer, renowned as New Zealand's top sprint coach, oversees the training of the country's premier sprint prospect, Zoe Hobbs. In 2023, Zoe set a career-best 10.96 100m time in Switzerland, and this year, James and Zoe are gearing up for the Paris Olympics.

However, our observation revealed that New Zealand land-based athletes often prioritise bronco times and running blocks, inadvertently sidelining the essential components of their initial repetitions—those dynamic, explosive, and fast movements. The question arises: What exactly are they conditioning if these crucial elements are overlooked?

A discernible gap exists between coaching and training for speed. Too often, an athlete's intended speed session transforms into a conditioning workout, influenced by factors such as insufficient rest and an overwhelming exercise volume.

In response to this challenge, our inaugural speed camp was created. Seeing world-class athletes attend camps globally, we asked ourselves: Why not bring this opportunity to New Zealand?

During the camp, our focus extended beyond just speed. We honed in on acceleration, max velocity, and instilled universal principles applicable across various land-based sports. Our guidance transcends the on-field experience; we assist athletes in refining their gym routines, absorbing classroom learning, and applying principles in practical settings.

This event marks the beginning of a series planned for 2024 at JP ATHLETIC. Our vision is to collaborate with the best coaches worldwide, aiming to educate, motivate, challenge, and inspire our athletes. Contrary to common belief, speed is not merely an inherent trait; it's a skill that can be nurtured. At JP ATHLETIC, our commitment is to impart the right training principles, empowering athletes to become faster, regardless of their initial starting point.

After the success of our first event, we are excited to announce the return of our speed camp for college athletes this week. Join us as we continue to make strides in the pursuit of athletic excellence.