Jovanovic Overview of Periodization Strategies for Resistance Training

Jovanovic—Overview of Periodization Strategies for Resistance Training

Jovanovic discusses 3 main groups when it comes to periodization methods of resistance training. These groups are: sequential method, concurrent method and the conjugate sequence system (or emphasis method). He mentions that these methods can be combined when developing a program, however, they are to be used to achieve the goal of the program. When it comes to the sequential method, it involves utilizing specific time intervals to develop a training goal. He discusses the difference between linear and undulating methods and there variations of their time intervals (long vs short) which affect the length of the mesocycles/phases. The concurrent method works by developing/training all physical goals we want to achieve at the same time. This method is tricky because we have to be careful of overtraining and not maximizing training effect of these physical qualities. The conjugate system works by focusing multiple physical qualities, but focusing more on one or two while training others minimally.

Jovanovic—Concurrent Strategies of Strength Training

Part 1 discusses the problem with sequential and block training. The problem with those is that they detrain once you start working on developing another quality. The saying that applies here is “use it or lose it”. The advantage to concurrent strategies is that for parallel development of physical qualities. The disadvantage is that overtraining may occur and we may be limiting potential training effect of these qualities. He then introduces the terms, maximal strength, explosive strength, muscular hypertrophy, and muscular endurance. These terms were discussed in previous readings. He states that using interactions of loads, sets and reps, we can choose where to develop a qualities as these lie on a repetition continuum. Part 2 mentions the daily undulating periodization is characterized by devotion of a whole training session toward a specific goal. Jovanovic also touched on the varying terminology used for things such as foundation exercises, supplemental exercises, major assistance exercises, and secondary exercises. He explained that the classifications assist the coach in organizing and prioritizing things in a manner than meets the demands of the athlete’s sport as well as position.