Effects of 12 weeks of block periodization on performance and performance indices in well-trained cyclists

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of two different methods of organizing endurance training in trained cyclists during a 12-week preparation period. One group of cyclists performed block periodization (BP; n=8), wherein every fourth week constituted five sessions of high-intensity aerobic training (HIT), followed by 3 weeks of one HIT session. Another group performed a more traditional organization (TRAD; n=7), with 12 weeks of two weekly HIT sessions. The HIT was interspersed with low-intensity training (LIT) so that similar total volumes of both HIT and LIT were performed in the two groups. BP achieved a larger relative improvement in VO2max than TRAD (8.8±5.9% vs 3.7±2.9%, respectively, P<0.05) and a tendency toward larger increase in power output at 2mmol/L [la-] (22±14% vs 10±7%, respectively, P=0.054). Mean effect size (ES) of the relative improvement in VO2max, power output at 2mmol/L [la-], hemoglobin mass, and mean power output during 40-min all-out trial revealed moderate superior effects of BP compared with TRAD training (ES range was 0.62-1.12). The present study suggests that BP of endurance training has superior effects on several endurance and performance indices compared with TRAD. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.