[FromTheBleachers95]

A question for coaches or former coaches: 

How do you handle the last few weeks of school? With state testing, finals, field trips, and any other distraction imaginable, how do you manage the chaos to end a school year? Do you continue with a normal workout routine, do you have added days off, do you cancel for a week at a time, or what? I see many different coaches and programs on social media who continue their workout schedule regardless, and also see those who have allowed time off. So, what's the best option?

[24Rocks]

I'm a believer in brief, infrequent, high intensity workouts. Many people see taking breaks as a negative or at the least as something that won't be too harmful. I don't see it that way. Periodic breaks are a necessity and are valuable for preventing burnout and injuries. Simply plan for breaks from workouts during obvious times such as spring break (usually the first week of April in KY) and finals week (usually the end of May). In addition, it's easy enough to work around events like state testing and ACT tests. Coaches who believe in working out 5 days a week are obviously going to disagree but high intensity training has a long and successful track record and periodic rest breaks are a part of that approach.