Establishing 2014 Periodization

A good definition of periodization can be found here.   Instead of re-inventing the wheel I'll just provide a quick summary of periodization.

Periodization is the process of dividing your training year into distinct periods, with each period having a different purpose.  The six most common periods include: Preparation, Base, Build, Peak, Race and Transition.  The purpose of periodization is to make sure you are in top-form when you need it the most (priority A races).  Periodization is ultimately your foundation for the annual training plan. The best way to summarize periodization is by looking at the chart below (this is a direct copy from Friel’s Triathlete Training Bible).

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I use TrainingPeaks premium account, so the ATP Wizard will automatically set my periods based on the races (and the priority of the races) I input into the Wizard.  This makes my life very easy and this step in the ATP process very short.  Below is screenshot of the first few months of the season.