HMS, TIP 2014 HSC 32b

Position Statement

• Each periodisation phase is essential for optimal athletic performance because they systematically develop, maintain and recover physiological capacities whilst preventing overtraining and ensuring peak competition readiness.

Pre-Season Foundation Building

• Pre-season phase provides critical foundation for annual performance success by developing base fitness levels and fundamental skills required for competition demands.
• Evidence demonstrates that athletes who complete comprehensive pre-season training show 25-30% greater performance improvements compared to those with inadequate preparation.
• A rugby team’s pre-season focuses on aerobic conditioning, strength development and skill refinement over 12-16 weeks, incorporating progressive overload principles.
• This systematic approach proves essential because it builds cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength and technical competency that supports intense competition periods.
• Without adequate pre-season preparation, athletes face increased injury risk and poor early-season performance.
• Research confirms that 80% of season-ending injuries occur in athletes with insufficient pre-season conditioning, demonstrating the phase’s protective value.

In-Season Performance Maintenance

• In-season training maintains fitness levels whilst managing competition demands and fatigue accumulation through reduced training volumes and sport-specific focus.
• Studies indicate that athletes lose 10-15% of fitness gains within 3-4 weeks without maintenance training.
• A basketball player maintains strength twice weekly whilst emphasising tactical development and recovery between games, incorporating tapering before major competitions.
• This approach ensures peak performance sustainability throughout the competitive period whilst preventing overtraining syndrome.
• The phase balances training stress with competition stress, enabling consistent high-level performance when it matters most.
• Strategic peaking during finals ensures athletes reach optimal condition at season’s end.

Off-Season Recovery Integration

• Off-season phase facilitates complete physical and mental recovery whilst maintaining basic fitness through active rest and cross-training activities.
• Athletes engage in alternative sports and reduced training loads, preventing burnout whilst preparing for the next training cycle.

Reinforcement

• The evidence overwhelmingly supports systematic periodisation because each phase addresses specific physiological and psychological needs.
• Research data confirms that periodised athletes achieve 15-25% greater performance gains than non-periodised training, justifying the structured approach’s implementation.