William & Mary Athletics

Periodization is the gradual cycling (allocation of a specific period of time, whether days, weeks, or months) of specificity, intensity and volume of training to achieve peak levels of fitness for the most important
 
competitions. Knowledge and experience of the strength staff is critical in this planning process. Training programs are based on a yearly cycle, which is divided into periods and phases.
 
The most critical phase of the yearly training cycle is the off-season. Athletes should dedicate themselves to training 3-5 times per week in sessions lasting approximately 60 to 90 minutes. The greatest physiological improvements are made during the off-season.
 
All of the progress made during the off-season will deteriorate rapidly if training is not consistent
throughout the competitive season. Research has shown that strength is lost at a rate of 2 to 1. In addition, athletes become more susceptible to injury in the absence of strength training. When properly prescribed on a consistent basis, strength training should not interfere with competition.