Clinical Sports Medicine

Abstract

Periodization of strength training or planned changes in training volume and intensity are aimed at optimizing the development of strength (i.e. maximum power, strength endurance, speed power) and muscle mass. Types of periodized resistance training: Linear (classic) periodization (LP), nonlinear (undulating) periodization (weekly (WUP) and daily (DUP)), block periodization (BP), and a holistic version developed by Frederick Hatfield (HAT). The most important differences between these types are specific changes in the volume, intensity and frequency of training. In particular, the WUP and the HAT seem to elicit similar effects and benefits, but differences may result from different program structures (i.e., HAT: holistic/all-in-one, WUP: weekly changes). Practice shows that problems may arise especially in team sports or in sports that are periodically repeated (e.g., tennis, ball games) in terms of practical implementation planning of targeted strength training due to the weekly sports-specific loads. In this regard, it was speculated that HAT might represent a more viable way to increase strength performance and muscle mass through its easy-to-use approach compared to WUP. This articleis intended to compare effects of WUP and HAT based on available scientific data, to provide practical decision support for sport physicians, coaches, and therapists who are supervising athletes at a higher level of performance. KEY WORDS: Resistance Training, Maximum Power, Power Endurance, Program Design, Hypertrophy