The role of periodisation in triathlon training

[highcadence]

Is periodisation in triathlon training a myth perpetuated by out-of-touch coaches and self-proclaimed experts who are more concerned with lining their pockets than actually producing results?

Or can someone please provide a convincing argument for the relevance of periodisation in the modern era of triathlon training, where most age-groupers barely have the time or resources to follow a structured program, let alone one thats meticulously planned out to the minute?

Its time to separate the fact from the fiction - do the benefits of periodisation really outweigh the costs and complexities, or are we just drinking the Kool-Aid because its what everyone else is doing?

What I want to know is whether the average triathlete would be better off ditching the periodisation nonsense and focusing on building a solid aerobic base, rather than trying to cram as much high-intensity interval training into a 12-week block as humanly possible.

And another thing - if periodisation is so effective, why do we see so many top-level triathletes burning out or getting injured just when it matters most? Is it possible that the rigidity of periodisation is actually working against them, rather than for them?

Lets hear from the experts and non-experts alike - is periodisation the holy grail of triathlon training, or is it just a fancy way of saying I have no idea what Im doing, so Ill just follow the herd?

 

[Toofarhome]

Ah, the age-old question: is periodization a myth or a must-have? Well, let me tell you, if you're an age-gruper with limited time and resources, you might as well throw in the towel now. I mean, who needs structure and planning when you can just wing it, right? I'm sure your results will be just fine without periodization. Or not. But hey, at least you won't have to worry about following a meticulously planned program. Silver linings, my friends.

 

[suedezu]

Ah, the age-old debate of periodization in triathlon training! It's as if everyone's trying to solve the mysteries of the universe here. So, let me, the humble cyclist-triathlete from Romania, shed some light on this profound topic.

First off, let me address the so-called "experts" you mentioned. Sure, some may be more interested in their pockets than your progress. But, hey, can't we all relate to that? I mean, who doesn't enjoy a good pocket-lining now and then?

Now, on to periodization. Do you really think it's a myth? Oh, come on! It's not like Bigfoot or the Loch Ness Monster we're talking about here. ��� Bigfoot doesn't care if you can't follow a structured program, but periodization might just help you outpace your competitors! ‍‍‍

Look, I get it. Age-groupers have limited time and resources. But, let me tell you a secret: so do the pros! The difference is, they've mastered the art of periodization, and you, my friend, haven't.

So, is periodization worth the effort? Absolutely! But, don't take my word for it. Do your own research, and maybe, just maybe, you'll realize that the Kool-Aid isn't as bad as you think.

 

[Carpking]

"Periodization's relevance in modern triathlon training is a myth? Not quite. While it's true that many age-groupers lack the time and resources for meticulous planning, that doesn't negate the benefits of periodization. In fact, a well-structured program can optimize limited time and resources. The key is adapting periodization principles to individual needs, not blindly following a rigid plan."

 

[edward5709]

Periodization in triathlon training isn't a myth, but its application needs a reality check. The question is not whether to build an aerobic base or follow periodization, but rather how to integrate both effectively. Overemphasizing high-intensity training can lead to burnout and injuries, but the same can happen with a rigid periodization plan. The key lies in customization and adaptation to individual athlete's needs and circumstances. It's not one-size-fits-all, and it's not about blindly following the crowd. It's about strategic planning and intelligent implementation.

 

[greenhornbiker]

The belief that periodisation is a myth perpetuated by out-of-touch coaches is a misguided notion. While it's true that some coaches may prioritize their profits over their athletes' success, it's important to recognize that periodisation has been proven to be effective in many sports, including triathlon. The idea that age-groupers don't have the time or resources for a structured program is also flawed. Periodisation doesn't have to be meticulously planned to the minute; it can be adapted to fit individual needs and schedules.

The benefits of periodisation do outweigh the costs and complexities. Building a solid aerobic base is important, but high-intensity interval training is also crucial for improving performance. Ditching periodisation altogether may result in a lack of variation in training, which can lead to plateaus and injuries.

As for top-level triathletes burning out or getting injured, this is often due to overtraining, not periodisation. A well-designed periodised program includes planned recovery periods, which can help prevent overtraining and injuries.

In conclusion, periodisation is not a fancy way of saying "I have no idea what I'm doing." It's a proven training method that can help triathletes of all levels improve their performance, avoid plateaus, and prevent injuries. It's time to stop drinking the anti-periodisation Kool-Aid and start reaping the benefits of this effective training method.

 

[edward5709]

I feel ya, but let's cut the **** about periodization being a myth. It's not about being out-of-touch or prioritizing profits. It's a science, man. Age-groupers can dig it too, doesn't have to be minute-by-minute. Just roll with the benefits, ya know? Aerobic base matters, but so does high-intensity training. Ditching periodization? Nah, that's a plateau and injury invite. And overtraining, that's the real issue for top-level triathletes, not periodization. Recovery periods, that's where it's at. So, let's ditch the anti-periodization Kool-Aid and embrace the proven method. Cheers to smart training.