Effectiveness of Reverse vs. Traditional Linear Training Periodization in Triathlon

Abstract

The present research aimed to analyze the modification in performance, body composition, and autonomic modulation of reverse and traditional linear training periodization in amateur triathletes. We analyzed running and swimming performance, strength manifestation, body composition, and autonomic modulation before and after a traditional linear training periodization (four weeks of volume-based training plus four weeks of intensity-based training plus two-week tapering), a reverse linear training periodization (four weeks of intensity-based training plus four weeks of volume-based training plus two-week tapering), and a free training control physical active group (10-week free training) in 32 amateur athletes. Independently of the periodization model, the combination of two four-week mesocycles followed by a two-week taper is an efficiency strategy to avoid overreaching, obtaining an increase in parasympathetic modulation. Moreover, both types of training periodization proposed in this study do not modified body composition of amateur triathletes. Also, compared with traditional periodization, reverse periodization efficiently improves horizontal jump performance. Finally, reverse and traditional periodization were an effective strategy to improve running biomechanical, performance, and physiological variables, as well as efficient periodization strategies to improve swimming technical ability, aerobic, and anaerobic swimming performance.

Hematological and Running Performance Modification of Trained Athletes after Reverse vs. Block Training Periodization

“…The increases in VO 2 max and the speed at VO 2 max obtained by reverse and BP highlighted the effectiveness of both systems to reach aerobic physiological markers, but reverse periodization was more efficient since a lower training volume was performed. The increases in VO 2 max and speed at VO 2 max were in consonance with previous authors in equaled volume training periodization in cycling, triathlon, and swimming [12,13,23], showing how these methods also improve aerobic performance in running. In the same way, the decreased in HR at VT2 was in line with other research conducted with swimmers [6]; nevertheless, in this study, improvement in swimming speed was found, in contrast to the present research, where most likely the different performance level and sport modality could explain this difference.…”

“…Regarding jump performance results, a previous study reported an interference effect of aerobic endurance exercise on strength and power gains [12]. In addition, a recent study showed that traditional periodization negatively affected jump performance in endurance athletes, but reverse periodization improved it [13]. In this way, our results showed that variations in training periodization could interfere with lower body power in both groups, suggesting that both RP and BP positively improved CMJ height.…”

“…Analyzing the training load of each group, we found a significant higher volume in BP than RP. Traditional periodization studies tried to equal the volume of training in the different training groups analyzed, producing a distortion in the reverse training periodization structure in this matching process [13]. Reverse periodization is based on a low training volume combined with high intensity, starting the implementation of high intensity from the beginning of the macrocycle [23].…”

“…These short-term training methodologies have been reported as efficient interventions to increase sympathetic modulation to achieve different physiological adaptions related with aerobic performance such as the increase in muscle buffering capacity, glycogen content, GLUT4 concentration, and maximal glucose transport activity in skeletal muscle [15][16][17][18]. In addition, RP improves jump performance in endurance athletes, but traditional periodization affects it negatively [13].…”

Differences in Psychoneuroendocrine Stress Responses of High-Level Swimmers Depending on Autocratic and Democratic Coaching Style

“…Training is a long-term process where the acquisition of new technical, physiological and psychological skills depends on the psychophysiological status of the athlete. The periodisation of these physiological and psychological skills in the training load, as well as a correct dosage of technical skill training, would allow the coach to assist in the best progression of the athletes [29,30]. In this line, it is important to highlight the need of a climate of trust and personal security to enhance desire and freedom to learn and communicate without fear of failure.…”