53. PLANNING THE MICROCYCLE: CONCENTRATE INTERVALS INTO FEWER DAYS
In previous posts we saw the importance of optimizing the structure of the intervals performed during high intensity training (HIT) sessions. This because such intensity (above second threshold/CP/FTP) stimulates great adaptations but also brings to fatigue in the following days. The same (even if with a lower amplitude) holds true for medium intensity sessions (between first and second threshold, zone 3 in a 5/7 zones model).
Given these considerations. when planning medium and high intensity training, apart from the intensity and duration of the intervals, another factor that should be considered is how to periodize the microcycle (the so called microperiodization).
When matching the total high/medium intensity volume, is concentrating high/medium intensity intervals into fewer days better than performing fewer intervals per day but for more days per week?
A study published by Tønnessen and Colleagues (School of Health Sciences, Kristiana University College, Oslo, Norway.) on International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health in 2020 tried to answer this question. (1)
WHAT DID THEY DO?
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