Open AccessUtilizing the Maximum Workload Range for Practice Periodization
Author(s) -
Gabriel J. Sanders,
Corey A. Peacock
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
research directs in strength and performance
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2768-5187
DOI - 10.53520/rdsp2022.10533
Subject(s) - periodization , workload , range (aeronautics) , athletes , football , team sport , training (meteorology) , computer science , simulation , football team , psychology , statistics , mathematics , physical therapy , engineering , geography , meteorology , medicine , aerospace engineering , archaeology , operating system
CommentaryThe maximum workload range (max range) is a concept suggested by Sanders et al.1 regarding a method used to prescribe adequate practice workloads based off wearable technology data. The max range is calculated as follows from game data:Max Range = (Mean Total Distance + 1 St. Dev.) to (Maximum Total Distance)While the example provided utilizes total distance, the max range can be applied to key performance indicators such as high-speed distance, training load, jumps, etc. that are tracked throughout the competitive season in team sports. The max range concept was developed from research that found 12-17% of the time, football athletes, depending on position, accumulated game workloads outside their position’s mean + 1SD. Anecdotally, many coaches and practitioners use simple game averages as a control for ideal practice volumes. Based on previous research, using the game average as control training threshold may result in some high performing athletes being under-conditioned. It is reasonable to suggest that potential compound effects may occur throughout an entire season if athletes are not engaging in rigorous training loads that mimic game-like volumes and intensities.Figure 1. Theoretical football periodization structure for a defensive back using the max range for high intensity training days.