Periodization
What is periodization?
How does periodization work with mental skill training?
- Coaches may use the method of periodization for implementing a mental training.
- Periodization can be described as a program that is created in order to help athletes reach peak performance for specific competitions (Judge, 2011).
- Holliday et al. (2008) Also, periodization can be described as “a program design/implementation strategy developed to maximize the effects of physical training through planned variation in key training variables, particularly volume and intensity over predetermined training cycle.” It is used as “a means of integrating mental and physical in training is to promote better mental practice and more consistent transfer to competitive situations (Holliday et al., 2008, p. 200 & 205).
How does periodization work with mental skill training?
- Periodization utilizes the creation of “workouts” with varying volumes and intensities over a smaller training cycle and as those cycles fit into an overall seasonal cycle.
- A career would be comprised of many periodization cycles.
- The idea of training at varied levels of intensity or volume throughout the training season can also help the athlete progress to more demanding training as they build on their abilities throughout the season.
- This concept is very similar to physical training in regards to programs created with a varied peaking cycle based on needs and competitions (Holliday et al, 2008, p. 205).
- This style of training may be helpful as some athletes might get tired or overwhelmed when training mentally.
- Varying training might be beneficial for accommodating athletes in regards to their physical training load.
- This method can also be adjusted based different aspects of the athlete’s life outside of the sport they are participating.
- The point would be to create a plan and cycle that would allow the athletes to peak at a preferred time, whether that be an end of the year competition or multiple peaks throughout a season to assess growth and development.