Periodisation

Question 1

What is periodisation?

Answer 1

Dividing the training year into specific sections for a specific purpose.

Question 2

What are the three cycles in a training plan?

Answer 2

• Macrocycle

• Mesocycle

• Microcycle

Question 3

What is a macrocycle?

Answer 3

The long-term planning phase. It varies between athletes, as rugby players may have a season-long macrocycle whereas athletes have four years to prepare for the Olympics. It’s made of three periods: preparation, competition, and transition.

Question 4

What is the preparation period in a macrocycle?

Answer 4

The first period. It involves general conditioning and the development of fitness levels.

Question 5

What is the competition period in a macrocycle?

Answer 5

The second period. It’s where the performer refines skills and techniques, as well as maintaining fitness levels.

Question 6

What is the transition period in a macrocycle?

Answer 6

The third period. It’s the rest and recovery stage. This period allows the athlete to recharge mentally and physically and ensures an injury-free start to the forthcoming season.

Question 7

What is a mesocycle?

Answer 7

Usually a 4-12 week period of training with a particular focus (e.g. developing a component of fitness such as muscular strength).

Question 8

What is a microcycle?

Answer 8

Planning for a week, a few days or an individual training session - it’s repeated throughout the length of the mesocycle.

Question 9

What is tapering?

Answer 9

Reducing the volume and/or intensity of training prior to competition.

Question 10

What is peaking?

Answer 10

Planning and organising training so a performer is at their peak both physically and mentally for a major competition.