Towards a de facto Nonlinear Periodization: Extending Nonlinearity from Programming to Periodizing

Abstract

Planning is paramount in sport. Among different philosophical approaches to planning, periodization is a highly popular concept that refers to structured training periods with ensuing programs encompassing moments of progressively-loaded training, followed by recovery; it is normally deemed paramount to optimize adaptations and performance. While planning provides generic guidelines, periodization refers to the sequencing/ordering of training periods to enforce a given plan, therefore referring to longer temporal scales, and programming refers to more micro-scale aspects. In fact, similar periodization schemes may implement distinct programming strategies. Literature on the topic has used the linear and nonlinear terms to describe the content of periodized programs. However, these concepts have not been clearly defined in the literature, which may lead to inaccurate and misleading interpretations. Moreover, nonlinear periodization is usually using nonlinear programming, but with pre-stipulated sequencing of the training periods. Finally, it can be argued that nonlinearity has been an integral part of periodization since its inception, at least theoretically. In this essay, the literature was critically reviewed to better understand the validity of the linearity and nonlinearity concepts as applied in currently proposed periodization models. In addition, a novel approach for a de facto nonlinear periodization is presented.

Periodization and Programming for Individual 400 m Medley Swimmers

“…Periodization can be defined as the macromanagement of the delineated stages of training process with respect to the time allocated toward various elements [ 7 ]. The key aspects that underpin periodization are: (i) determining relevant dates (e.g., main and minor competitions), (ii) determining the sequence of phases for each training cycle and (iii) managing load dynamics with the intent of achieving peak or optimal performance at the critical competitions [ 8 ]. There are few studies which have examined the key aspects related to the best performance in 400 m IM events, including the training organization and periodization.…”

Ongoing Bidirectional Feedback between Planning and Assessment in Educational Contexts: A Narrative Review

“…Planning extends over a continuum that ranges from general stipulations (i.e., a declaration of intentions) to more detailed plans (e.g., progression of drills to solve a specific technical issue within a training session) [11,12]. Of note, planning should consider the non-linear and dynamic characteristics of learning [13], embracing intra-and interindividual variability and the largely unpredictable and "messy" reality of teaching and coaching [11,14]. Traditionally, planning stipulates relative strict timelines based on "optimal" or "ideal" sequences for pre-specified contents (i.e., their relative timing or ordering), both in school (i.e., scholar programs/curricula for each schoolyear) [15] and sports contexts (e.g., largely pre-defined training cycles for each season) [16].…”

“…This, however, implicitly assumes that learning is a linear and straightforward process. Recently, more flexible approaches to the planning processes have been proposed [13,17,18], arguing for a deep and ongoing dialogue between planning and learning [13,19]. Of course, such dialogue relies heavily on the process of assessment, which is, therefore, deeply intertwined with the concept of planning.…”

Bidirectional Interactions between the Menstrual Cycle, Exercise Training, and Macronutrient Intake in Women: A Review

“…In addition, both the MC and the responses to exercise training may be mediated by nutritional status. Furthermore, nonlinear dose-response relationships suggest the adoption of equally nonlinear periodization and programming strategies to better account for inter- and intraindividual variation, establishing an ongoing dialogue between plan and process instead of relying on pre-determined plans [ 11 ].…”