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

Abstract

A well-planned periodized approach endeavors to allow road cyclists to achieve peak performance when their most important competitions are held. Purpose: To identify the main characteristics of periodization models and physiological parameters of trained road cyclists as described by discernable training intensity distribution (TID), volume, and periodization models. Methods: The electronic databases Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science were searched using a comprehensive list of relevant terms. Studies that investigated the effect of the periodization of training in cyclists and described training load (volume, TID) and periodization details were included in the systematic review. Results: Seven studies met the inclusion criteria. Block periodization (characterized by employment of highly concentrated training workload phases) ranged between 1- and 8-week blocks of high-, medium-, or low-intensity training. Training volume ranged from 8.75 to 11.68 h·wk–1 and both pyramidal and polarized TID were used. Traditional periodization (characterized by a first period of high-volume/low-intensity training, before reducing volume and increasing the proportion of high-intensity training) was characterized by a cyclic progressive increase in training load, the training volume ranged from 7.5 to 10.76 h·wk–1, and pyramidal TID was used. Block periodization improved maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max), peak aerobic power, lactate, and ventilatory thresholds, while traditional periodization improved VO2max, peak aerobic power, and lactate thresholds. In addition, a day-by-day programming approach improved VO2max and ventilatory thresholds. Conclusions: No evidence is currently available favoring a specific periodization model during 8 to 12 weeks in trained road cyclists. However, few studies have examined seasonal impact of different periodization models in a systematic way.

Impact of menstrual cycle or combined oral contraception on elite female cyclists' training responses through a clustering analysis of training sessions

“…We observed an uneven distribution of training types, with medium efforts being the most common (40%) and intensive efforts being less frequent (10%). Even though this is a new training type classification, differing from previous methodologies, these proportions are concordant with a recent review on training periodization in trained cyclists ( 28 ).…”

The Effectiveness of the Weight Training Method and Rest Interval on VO₂ max, Flexibility, Muscle Strength, Muscular Endurance, and Fat Percentage in Students

“…This can happen because at rest for 120 seconds there will be the restoration of ATP and PCr as much as 84%, allowing the muscles to be able to use energy from ATP and PCr as much as 84% when performing the next movement. Although it is true that ATP and PCr restoration will return to 100% after 3-8 minutes of rest, so to be able to train maximum strength, it is better to use rest time between sets of more than 3 minutes [58]. In addition to the long rest periods, to train maximum muscle strength, it is also necessary to pay attention to the intensity of the exercise, because to increase muscle strength maximally, it should be done with an intensity of 70% -80% of 1 RM for medium levels, 80% -90% of 1 RM for medium levels weight, 90% -100% of 1 RM for maximum load and above 105% of 1 RM for supermaximum [59].…”

The proportional distribution of training by elite endurance athletes at different intensities during different phases of the season

“…These differences in the proportions of Z1 and Z2 training between cycling and the other sports, as well as the large variation in these proportions between cyclists, may reflect the unique features of competitive cycling. With this sport, competitions comprise a large portion of the overall training time, typically lasting several days to weeks, with single-day races of 1–6 h. Moreover, world-tour athletes compete 60–80 days per season ( 65 ). In combination with the variability in individual physiological loads during competitions, these characteristics may explain our findings on cycling ( 93 , 94 ).…”

“…The available literature on TIDs has involved well-trained and elite athletes as subjects ( 58 , 64 , 65 ). It is important to realize that elite-to-world-class athletes [Tier 4 and 5 athletes according to McKay's framework ( 67 )] perform much more overall training than athletes at a lower level and that the volume of training exerts an impact on the TID ( 63 ).…”