The rhythms of our periodized training program seem to be really working for us. Couple that with some of the analytic training techniques we're starting, and we may be on to something.
In this podcast (Quicktime iPod compatible download, 25MB; Google streamed flash video), Nancy Arnold and I (Bud) provide an update on our periodization program. What we find amazing is that the program is producing gains while still allowing us to recover. We are now eager to come workout and see if we can top the percentage of 1RM targets for 10 reps.
Based on Mike's recent Washington Post story, I suspect one of the major benefits of this program is the fact that it sets explicit goals both at the workout level and over the long term. We're motivated to make those goals. The program also seems to take your body into account. We do practice progressive overload as Mike, a nationally competitive powerlifter, does, but we do it in spurts based on pre-calculated recovery rhythms. Nancy has provided her own view on some additional factors that may be helping.
Based on some feedback from Ralfe Sean, I'm starting to think of this as the beginning of our analytic training era. That really differs from our previous regimen which was characterized by always trying to lift heavy, resulting in a lot of overtraining. We were constantly sore and run down. I lost weight when I was supposed to be gaining. The periodization program seems much better.
Comments (5)
Great summary of the podcaast. I agree that these progessive overloads are allowing adequate recovery time yet enough muscle breakdown to elicit changes.
Posted by nancy | July 4, 2006 9:20 PM
Posted on July 4, 2006 21:20
Bud + Nancy,
The 'Periodization for Bodybuilders' article series on Lyle McDonald's site may be of interest.
http://www.bodyrecomposition.com/articles.html
Posted by Scott | July 7, 2006 9:06 AM
Posted on July 7, 2006 09:06
Scott, looks like a good resource. I'll have to give it a read.
Posted by Bud Gibson | July 7, 2006 3:28 PM
Posted on July 7, 2006 15:28
Go for 135 Nancy...get your big boy wheels, as I've heard some of them refer to it....plus I've not seen any ladies do the 135 bench. :)
Posted by Chris D. | July 16, 2006 9:55 PM
Posted on July 16, 2006 21:55
Today's the day Chris. We'll report later on how we did.
Posted by Bud Gibson | July 18, 2006 9:49 AM
Posted on July 18, 2006 09:49