COMPARISON OF PERIODIZATION MODELS: A CRITICAL REVIEW WITH PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Abstract

Periodization has been used for years in the sports domain as a method of controlling and planning training to reach the highest performance and decrease injury risk. Several periodization models have been developed, such as traditional, block, and undulating. Those models are theoretical training structures designed to facilitate understanding, study, and organization of training. Based on studies, certain models have shown to be superior to others. For instance, block periodization seemed to be more efficient for advanced athletes than traditional and undulating models. While for novice athletes, the chosen model has not seemed to affect their development. Although periodization has been largely studied, the experiments have several limitations, such as considering only training variation as periodization, using short-term investigations, and disregarding the technical and tactical components. Therefore, this critical review aimed to describe and discuss the contents related to traditional, block, and undulating periodization models and to provide coaches with a practical application of each of those models to develop strength, power, and endurance for novice and advanced athletes.