LTAD is a framework for developing physical literacy, physical fitness, and competitive ability, using a stage-by-stage approach. The LTAD model recognizes that physical literacy is the foundation for a) being active, healthy, and engaged in physical activity for life and/or b) achieving personal best performances at all levels of competition. Simply put, LTAD provides an optimal development plan for everyone to participate in physical activity while ensuring that individuals who wish to excel in their sport of choice get the optimal training, competition, and recovery in each stage of their athletic development.
Although a number of factors went in to the content the focus remained on work being done in the Quality Sport space, delivering Good Programs, in Good Places, run by Good People. This theme runs through the content enclosed. At the heart of all the work that has gone into this revised framework is the underlying focus on providing a framework that is athlete centered, sport system supported and is reflective of what is best for all Special Olympics athletes given their interests, goals, motivation and skill level.
The Special Olympics LTAD 2.0 framework and implementation plan will ensure:
● Quality programs and services for our athletes, coaches, volunteers and supporters;
● Quality training for athletes and coaches;
● A high level of support for athletes in training and competition including a focus on their personal health, well-being and safety
The framework is just the start of the long term development for athletes with an ID in Canada. This document will be supported by an implementation plan, LTAD specific resources, links to best practices, coaching tools and ongoing development. Resources and tools will be continued to be added to this page as they are developed.
