Sport and exercise science is a development which has emerged from research in the physical, biological, behavioural, social and medical sciences. The knowledge base within the field of sport science has increased over the past 20 years to cater for the specific needs of the total spectrum of athletic endeavour, including children and adolescents, disabled, the social participant, and the accomplished performer. This book applies sports science research knowledge to the attainment of high levels of sports performance through training. While "raw" athletic talent is the most important factor in the attainment of high levels of sport performance, coaching based on sound sport science principles is also an essential quality if this talent is to be fully developed. In the book, international experts review and discuss essential factors that collectively can determine the level of performance achieved. It covers the training of perceptual-motor skills; the psychological factors that enable an athlete to compete successfully; using appropriate techniques for the relevant sport; physical characteristics of the athlete; and attaining and maintaining levels of fitness.