2. Cycles of Periodization in Cycling?
We can designate 3 main periodization cycles: macrocycles, mesocycles, and microcycles.
All cycles together can let us build a training plan, which will include different parts of preparation for the season. Now, let’s focus on specific cycles.
2.1 Macrocycles:
could be called, annual plan. It is the biggest cycle which includes all parts of the season, preparation, competition, transition.
This cycle should be preparer, in the beginning, to give you a bigger picture for the whole season with mesocycles included into it as well as all events.
Macrocycle should be created based on previous seasons, hours that athlete can spend on training as well as TSS that needs to be done.
All adjustments should be made during the season in case of overtraining, injury, or sickness.
2.2 Mesocycles:
most of the time are from 2-6 weeks and it is more detailed phase focused on more specific work, like the base or build period where you focus on developing different energetic systems.
At this cycle you can see periodization more clearly, you should be implementing recovery every 2-3 weeks as you can see below.
2.3 Microcycles:
focus on individual weeks. Each week and each individual training should be described in detail.
A properly planned week should include training days as well as non-training days and especially focus on the balance between training load and recovery.
