Periodizing your Power Training for Newbies!

Zev Weisdorf
3 min readFeb 6, 2023
Photo by Victor Freitas on Unsplash

Power training is a crucial component of many sports and fitness programs, as it helps to improve athletic performance, increase strength, and reduce the risk of injury. To get the most out of your power training, it’s important to have a well-planned and structured approach, known as periodization. In this article, we’ll explore how to periodize power training for a year.

What is Periodization? Periodization is the process of dividing a training program into specific phases, each with a different focus and intensity, in order to maximize progress and prevent burnout. By using periodization, you can systematically vary the volume, intensity, and specificity of your power training to help you achieve your goals.

Photo by Sven Mieke on Unsplash

How to Periodize Power Training for a Year

  1. Assessment The first step in periodizing your power training is to assess your current fitness level and athletic abilities. This will help you determine where to start, what your strengths and weaknesses are, and what areas need the most improvement.
  2. Base Building The next step is to build a solid foundation of strength and endurance through a period of base building. During this phase, you’ll focus on developing a good level of overall fitness, improving technique, and building up your endurance.
  3. Hypertrophy Once you’ve built a strong base, the next phase is to focus on hypertrophy, or building muscle mass. During this phase, you’ll perform heavier weightlifting exercises and increase the volume of your training to help you build muscle and improve your overall strength.
  4. Strength and Power The strength and power phase is where you’ll focus on developing maximum strength and explosiveness. This phase is usually shorter and more intense, as you’ll be using heavier weights and performing exercises that require maximum effort.
  5. Peak Performance The final phase of your power training periodization is to peak for performance. During this phase, you’ll be focusing on fine-tuning your technique, improving your power, and preparing your body for competition or a specific athletic event.
  6. Rest and Recovery After your peak performance phase, it’s important to take a break and let your body recover. This could involve taking a few weeks off from training, or simply reducing the volume and intensity of your workouts. This will help you avoid burnout, prevent injury, and get ready for the next cycle of training.

Tips for Success

  • Gradually increase the intensity and volume of your training over time, instead of trying to do too much too soon.
  • Make sure to give your body adequate time to recover between training sessions.
  • Mix up your workouts and include a variety of exercises to target different muscle groups.
  • Keep track of your progress and make adjustments to your training program as needed.
  • Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet to fuel your workouts and support recovery.

Conclusion Periodizing your power training is a smart and effective way to achieve your athletic goals and improve your performance. By breaking down your training into specific phases, you can ensure that you’re making steady progress and avoiding burnout. With a little planning and dedication, you can successfully periodize your power training for a year and reach your full potential.

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Zev Weisdorf

Strength Coach, Learner, Creator, Investor, Jewish, Brother to 4 incredible siblings, currently in London Ontario! Join me for the ride.