Periodization & Athletic Conditioning Flashcards

A coach notices a player's sprint speed has plateaued despite consistent training. Applying the principle of variation, the BEST corrective action is to:

Answer: Introduce a new stimulus such as resisted sprints or altered sprint distances

Introducing variation in training stimuli (e.g., resisted sprints, hill runs, or altered distances) disrupts accommodation and restimulates neuromuscular adaptation.

In undulating (non-linear) periodization, training variables such as volume and intensity change:

Answer: Frequently—often session to session or week to week—within the same phase

Undulating periodization fluctuates training variables frequently (daily or weekly) to simultaneously develop multiple qualities and prevent accommodation.

Which of the following best describes the 'transition period' in an annual periodization plan for a tennis player?

Answer: An active recovery period between competitive seasons allowing physical and mental regeneration

The transition period follows the competitive season and prioritizes active rest, mental recovery, and low-intensity movement to prepare for the next training cycle.

When prescribing plyometric training for a competitive tennis player, which intensity progression order is correct?

Answer: Broad jumps → box jumps → depth jumps

Plyometric intensity progresses from low-impact jumps (broad jumps) to moderate (box jumps) to high-intensity reactive drills (depth jumps) to manage joint stress safely.

Lactate threshold training for tennis players is important because it:

Answer: Raises the exercise intensity at which lactic acid begins to accumulate, improving sustained high-intensity play

A higher lactate threshold allows players to sustain higher intensities before fatigue-causing lactic acid accumulates, extending competitive performance quality.

A strength coach prescribes a 10-week hypertrophy block before a power development block. This sequencing reflects which periodization concept?

Answer: Residual training effect utilization within block periodization

Block periodization exploits residual training effects—hypertrophy gains persist into the power block, providing a stronger structural base for force production.

A 16-year-old competitive tennis player should have their strength program designed with primary emphasis on:

Answer: Multi-joint movement patterns and relative strength before high-load work

Adolescent athletes benefit from developing fundamental movement competency and relative strength before high-load training due to ongoing skeletal development.