Training harder isn’t always training smarter. Periodization is the simple, science-backed idea of organizing your training year into phases so you build fitness, avoid burnout, and peak at the right time. Whether you’re a young athlete, a busy adult, or staying active later in life, periodization helps you progress on purpose.

Periodization is the structured planning of training over time to help the body adapt, improve, and recover sustainably. Instead of doing the same workouts week after week, periodization strategically changes volume, intensity, and focus to match how the human body actually responds to stress.