Periodisation in training refers to?

• A. Periodisation
• B. Training year preparation
• C. Annual plan structure
• D. Scheduling of training blocks without peaking

Answer: (A)

Periodisation is the structured planning of training over time to optimise performance at a specific target, usually a competition or event. It involves dividing the training year into phases (macrocycles, mesocycles, microcycles) and deliberately adjusting training load, volume and intensity, with planned periods of recovery and a taper to allow adaptation. The aim is to build a solid base, progress toward higher quality work, and culminate in a peak at the right moment.

That's why the term itself fits best: it captures the idea of a carefully organized, time-driven plan designed to produce peak performance. The notions of merely preparing the year or outlining an annual plan are related but don’t fully convey the purposeful sequencing and peaking. Scheduling blocks without peaking misses the central goal of periodisation, which is to time the training so performance reaches its highest point when it matters.