The changing face of periodization - a new paradigm?

Periodization has, for decades, been the go to method to develope scientifically "sound" training programs.

Over the years we have made use of numerous, defined phases of training, with specific guidelines and focuses for each "period" of training.

I have made use of periodization in my own programming, and have always felt that it is rather limited in that, although the training prescription does partially address the principle of specificity, it did not always meet the requirements for individualization. 

We all know we cannot create "cookie cut" programs for individuals participating in exercise programs. Some might respond more quickly to the training intervention, while others might take a little longer to adapt to the applied stressor.

Furthermore, we run the risk of applying a load that is to large for certain individuals and perhaps too small for others.

Current research published in the International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance (Periodization Paradigms in the 21st Century: Evidence-Led or Tradition-Driven? 2012, 7, 242 – 250, John Kiely), has brought to fore the need for an adjusted approach to training program design and development. 

On the topic of traditional periodization models, the authors feel "that such models (traditional periodization), share a deep-rooted cultural heritage underpinned by a common set of historically pervasive planning beliefs and assumptions."

The publication calls for "an urgent need for periodization theories to be realigned with contemporary elite practice and modern scientific conceptual models"

The bottom line here is that we need to start to approach our programming with the individual at the forefront of our minds. Pre-determined training assignments are no longer an optimal,or acceptable, method of prescribing exercise and training.

A better approach, according to the publication, is allowing, "emphasis be placed on the design and implementation of sensitive and responsive training systems that facilitate the guided emergence of customized context-specific training-planning solutions."

As with so many things in the fields of Sport Science and Exercise Physiology, we need to find a point that takes all the relevant information, from both the past and the present, allowing for the development  of a new paradigm moving into the future.