Is “periodization programming” periodization or programming?

Abstract

Within the literature examining the periodization of resistance training, "periodization" and "programming" are often confused and used interchangeably. This has resulted in the drawing of inferences regarding the efficacy of periodization from training studies comparing different programming models over short periods of time. As this conflation has become an area of scientific discussion, what was once referred to as "periodization" is now often referred to as "periodization programming" or "periodized programming." Presumably, the use of the term "periodization programming" acknowledges the shortterm nature of a given research intervention. However, this term has never been explicitly defined in the scientific literature. Furthermore, it is unclear if "periodization programming" is actually a form of periodization.Objectives: To define "periodization programming" and to discuss its use within the literature. Design & Methods: Literature including the terms "periodization programming" and "periodized programming" were reviewed.Results: Deliberate manipulations in the volume and training load over the short-term seem to be defining characteristics of "periodization programming." The resistance training methods employed by "periodization programming" studies share common ground such that they are structured in a manner resembling one stage of a block periodization model and are carried out alongside other stressors.Conclusions: "Periodization programming" studies are similar to previous studies employed to examine the concept of periodization and thus, may more accurately be investigating resistance training at the programming level. Without a formal definition, these studies may add to the confusion within the literature and further challenge the ability to draw inferences surrounding the efficacy of periodization.

Effects of a Short-Term Detraining Period on the Strength Deficit and Functional Performance of Highly Trained Soccer Players

“…The organization of the training process is based on different principles, tenets, and constructs (17,19,39). Among multiple methodological issues, periodization and programming appear as some of the most frequently discussed concepts, especially at the elite level (14,19). Traditional periodization is commonly described as a global training process that encompasses preplanned training periods (e.g., general or specific training phases) and fixed objectives (e.g., "strength foundation" or power development), distributed under a general principle of progression (i.e., a shift from high-volume low-intensity training at the preparatory phase to an emphasis on high-intensity low-volume training close to competitions), to achieve "peak performance" (1,17,19,42).…”

Training Periodization, Intensity Distribution, and Volume in Trained Cyclists: A Systematic Review

“…Currently, there is a lack of studies offering a framework for specific characteristics of a cycling-specific periodization (traditional vs block), including volume and training intensity distribution (TID) across the span of a season. Moreover, "periodization" and "programming" are terms that are often confused and used interchangeably because different authors do not distinguish periodization (long-term global organization and sequencing of training) from programming (short-term prescription of training sessions and sets), as reported by Kataoka et al 25 and Hammert et al 26 Traditionally, 3 physiologically distinguishable training intensity zones are detailed in the literature for endurance athletes. 27,28 These zones (z1, z2, and z3) can be individually determined by the first and second ventilatory thresholds or blood lactate turn points.…”

The Importance of Recovery in Resistance Training Microcycle Construction

“…After considering how these variables may influence recovery individually, it is important to examine how they interact and subsequently, how this may influence the program design. However, such a discussion requires the proper use of terminology: programming versus periodisation ( Hammert et al, 2021 ; Hornsby et al, 2020 ). Periodisation can be viewed as having a particular focus (i.e., strength or hypertrophy) for a phase of training (>6 weeks) that fits within the larger overall design (macrocycle), whereas programming involves manipulation of training variables within these phases that in turn, emphasise maximising the desired outcomes.…”

“…This starts with having a systematic approach to training through specific and purposeful manipulation of training variables such as volume, loads, and proximity to failure commonly referred to as periodisation ( Fleck, 1999 ); however, there has been discussion about proper use of terminology. Specifically, a clear distinction between programming and periodisation is needed as they represent different aspects of the program design and may cause confusion if used incorrectly ( Hammert et al, 2021 ; Hornsby et al, 2020 ). Distinct from periodisation, which refers to longer term changes, programming refers primarily to session-to-session or within microcycle changes to training variables, which have a more acute impact on training stress and stimulus.…”