Understanding the Benefits of Periodization Training in Cycling

Cycling is a sport that requires a lot of training to achieve success. While putting in the hours on the bike is crucial, it’s also important to have a structured training plan that takes into account the different aspects of the sport. This is where training periodisation comes into play.

What is Periodization Training?

It is the process of dividing your training into distinct periods or phases, each with a specific focus. By doing this, you can target specific aspects of your fitness and improve your overall performance. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at training periodisation in cycling and how it can benefit your training.

Phases of Cycling Periodisation

There are typically three phases in a periodised training plan: base training, build training, and peak training. Each phase has a specific purpose and builds on the previous phase to help you achieve your cycling goals.

1. Base Training: The base training phase is the foundation of your training plan. During this phase, you’ll focus on building your endurance and developing your aerobic system. This phase typically lasts for several months and involves long, steady rides at a low intensity.
2. Build Training: The build training phase is where you start to focus on improving your power and speed. During this phase, you’ll incorporate high-intensity intervals and hill repeats to improve your anaerobic fitness. This phase typically lasts for several weeks to a few months.
3. Peak Training: The peak training phase is where you fine-tune your fitness and prepare for your goal event. During this phase, you’ll focus on maintaining your fitness while reducing your training volume. You’ll also incorporate race-specific intervals to prepare your body for the demands of your goal event.

Benefits of Periodisation

There are several benefits to using a periodised training plan in cycling. Here are just a few:

1. Improved Performance: By targeting specific aspects of your fitness during each phase of your training, you can improve your overall performance on the bike.
2. Reduced Risk of Injury: By gradually increasing the intensity and volume of your training, you can reduce the risk of overtraining and injury.
3. Better Recovery: By incorporating rest and recovery periods into your training plan, you can allow your body to recover and adapt to the training stimulus, which can lead to better performance.
4. Increased Motivation: By setting specific goals for each phase of your training, you can stay motivated and focused on your cycling goals.

In conclusion, training periodisation is a valuable strategy for improving your cycling performance. By following a structured training plan that takes into account the different phases of periodisation, you can achieve your cycling goals and become a better cyclist. You can read more about it here.

If you’re interested in implementing periodisation into your training plan or would like to have a personalized training plan developed for you, reach out to us. Our team of experienced coaches can help you develop a training plan that’s tailored to your specific needs and goals. Don’t hesitate to contact TF Coaching team to take your cycling performance to the next level!