AFL players are widely regarded as some of the most finely tuned athletes globally. While the average fitness enthusiast might not aim for AFL-level prowess, there's so much to learn from their training methodologies. Recently, we had the opportunity to dive into the teachings of Cameron Falloon, founder of BFT and former strength and conditioning coach for AFL and international soccer teams. Here's what he shared:

Embrace periodization
Progressive, periodized programming is the cornerstone of elite training. “At BFT, our workouts are structured into 8–10-week progressive blocks. Within the blocks, there are 14 different programs, some are more cardio-focused, and others more strength-focused. All have different goals in mind. The block starts with familiarisation - getting used to the movements - then each week progresses on load, reps or time.” Cam is a big believer in the importance of progressive and mixed modality training to prevent plateaus and ensure continuous growth.

Consistency is key
Next, he emphasized the importance of consistency as one of the key determining factors that form the bedrock of any successful training regimen. “Book your workouts, put them in your diary and keep them as you would any other appointment. Making a habit of this is key!”. Besides, “Rome wasn’t built in a day!”

Set goals
Having something to work towards is every bit as gratifying as it is motivating. “Sitting down and setting yourself goals for your training will be a game changer. There is nothing more effective than training with intent. Whether it’s to hit a PB on your deadlift, drop a few kilograms, or compete in an event like Hyrox, having a reason to train makes motivation and accountability almost easy.''

Cam's final piece of advice? 'Fitness is a journey, not a destination'. Celebrate your progress along the way, and don't be afraid to adjust your approach as needed. With patience, consistency, and a balanced mindset, you can achieve serious results without sacrificing your well-being.

In a world obsessed with instant gratification and extreme measures, Cam’s wisdom is a refreshing reminder that true success lies in finding harmony between ambition and self-care. So, whether you're a seasoned athlete or a fitness enthusiast embarking on your journey, consider these tips on your path to serious fitness results—one mindful step at a time!