Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the main purpose of dividing an athlete's season into different cycles?
What is the main purpose of dividing an athlete's season into different cycles?
- To simplify training regimens without specific goals
- To target specific goals and structure training accordingly (correct)
- To ensure varied training is consistently maintained
- To focus only on competition preparation
Which of the following best describes a mesocycle?
Which of the following best describes a mesocycle?
- An extended period of rest to recover from training
- A framework for the entire training season
- A weekly training program consisting of various sessions
- A training block with a specific focus within the season (correct)
How does periodisation benefit athletes?
How does periodisation benefit athletes?
- By allowing athletes to train at maximum capacity without rest
- By systematically varying intensity and volume to reduce injury risk (correct)
- By ensuring increased training volume at all times
- By eliminating the need for structured training
What is included in a microcycle?
What is included in a microcycle?
What are the main categories of a macrocycle for an athlete?
What are the main categories of a macrocycle for an athlete?
Study Notes
Periodisation in Training Program Planning
- Coaches must view the entire season and divide it into structured sections known as 'cycles' to target specific training goals.
- There are three main cycles in periodisation: Macrocycle, Mesocycle, and Microcycle.
Macrocycle
- Represents the broader view of an athlete's training and competition schedule throughout the season.
- In sports like rugby, the macrocycle is categorized into three main phases: pre-season, in-season, and off-season.
Mesocycle
- Refers to specific training blocks within the macrocycle, each with a defined focus.
- During the pre-season, a rugby player might concentrate on improving cardiovascular endurance and building muscular strength.
Microcycle
- Comprises the weekly training schedule of the athlete, detailing daily activity.
- A rugby player's microcycle may include two pitch sessions, two gym sessions, and one tactics & analysis session weekly.
Benefits of Periodisation
- Systematic variation in workout intensity and volume helps prevent plateaus and reduces the risk of overtraining.
- By developing physical capacities at optimal times, periodisation enhances overall athletic performance.
- Incorporates rest and recovery periods, allowing athletes to adapt and progress sustainably over time.
- Provides a structured roadmap that aids athletes and coaches in setting and achieving specific performance goals throughout the training cycle.
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Description
Dive into the concept of periodisation in athletic training, focusing on how coaches plan an athlete's season. Understand the three cycles—macrocycle, mesocycle, and microcycle—and their roles in achieving specific training goals.