Cycle-Length Variants in Periodized Strength/Power Training

W hen designing resistance-training programs, the strength coach has to consider a number of variables that can be manipulated to make programs different. These include choosing (a) the exercise, (b) the repetitions, (c) the sets, (d) the resistance, (e) the speed of performing the exercise, (f ) the order of exercises, and (g) the rest periods between sets and exercises (6). The Australian Strength and Conditioning Association (ASCA) also accepts that coaches may choose to use a particular, specific variant of periodization (known also as a pattern, plan, strategy, method, or model of periodization) for a training cycle (1). While there are similarities between these different variants of periodized training, the ASCA recognizes that some coaches prefer to use certain variants for certain athletes (e.g., novices vs. experienced trainers) or periods of the training year (preparation period vs. competitive period). This approach of choosing a particular variant or method for periodized strength training, popular in Australia, was largely influenced by Poliquin (39, 40) and others (2, 13–16, 25) over the past 15 years. The purpose of this article is to outline some of the particular variants of cycles within a periodized training structure that a coach may choose from when designing a cycle-length strength/power-training program.