Purpose: This review aimed to determine (1) performance and training characteristics such as training intensity distribution (TID), volume, periodization, and methods in highly trained/elite distance runners and (2) differences in training volume and TID between event distances in highly trained/elite distance runners. Methods: A systematic review of the literature was carried out using the PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Results: Ten articles met the inclusion criteria. Highly trained/elite distance runners typically follow a pyramidal TID approach, characterized by a decreasing training volume from zone 1 (at or below speed at first ventilatory/lactate threshold [LT]) to zone 2 (between speeds associated with either both ventilatory thresholds or 2 and 4 mmol·L⁻¹ LTs [vLT1 and vLT2, respectively]) and zone 3 (speed above vVT2/vLT2). Continuous-tempo runs or interval training sessions at vLT2 in zone 2 (ie, medium and long aerobic intervals) and those in zone 3 (ie, anaerobic or short-interval training) were both used at least once per week each in elite runners, and they were used to increase the number of either vLT2 or z3 sessions to adopt either a pyramidal or a polarized approach, respectively. More pyramidal- and polarized-oriented approaches were used by marathoners and 1500-m runners, respectively. Conclusions: Highly trained and elite middle- and long-distance runners are encouraged to adopt a traditional periodization pattern with a hard day–easy day basis, consisting in a shift from a pyramidal TID used during the preparatory and precompetitive periods toward a polarized TID during the competitive period.

Stone, MH, Hornsby, WG, Haff, GG, Fry, AC, Suarez, DG, Liu, J, Gonzalez-Rave, JM, and Pierce, KC. Periodization and block periodization in sports: emphasis on strength-power training—a provocative and challenging narrative. J Strength Cond Res 35(8): 2351–2371, 2021—Periodization can be defined as a logical sequential, phasic method of manipulating fitness and recovery phases to increase the potential for achieving specific performance goals while minimizing the potential for nonfunctional over-reaching, overtraining, and injury. Periodization deals with the micromanagement of timelines and fitness phases and is cyclic in nature. On the other hand, programming deals with the micromanagement of the training process and deals with exercise selection, volume, intensity, etc. Evidence indicates that a periodized training process coupled with appropriate programming can produce superior athletic enhancement compared with nonperiodized process. There are 2 models of periodization, traditional and block. Traditional can take different forms (i.e., reverse). Block periodization has 2 subtypes, single goal or factor (individual sports) and multiple goals or factors (team sports). Both models have strengths and weaknesses but can be “tailored” through creative programming to produce excellent results for specific sports.

This study aimed to address the effects of increased longitudinal bending stiffness (LBS) on running economy (RE) and running biomechanics. A systematic search on four electronic databases (Pubmed, WOS, Medline and Scopus) was conducted on 26 May 2021. Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria and were included. Standardised mean difference with 95% confidence intervals (CI) between footwear with increased LBS vs. non‐increased LBS conditions and effect sizes were calculated. To assess the potential effects of moderator variables (type and length plate, increased LBS, shoe mass and running speed) on the main outcome variable (i.e. RE), subgroup analyses were performed. Increased LBS improved RE (SMD = −0.43 [95% CI −0.58, −0.28], Z = 5.60, p < 0.001) compared to non‐increased LBS. Significant increases of stride length (SMD = 0.29 [95% CI 0.10, 0.49], Z = 2.93, p = 0.003) and contact time (SMD = 0.17 [95% CI 0.03, 0.31], Z = 2.32, p = 0.02) were found when LBS was increased. RE improved to a greater degree at higher running speeds with footwear with increased LBS. RE improved 3.45% with curve plate compared to no‐plate condition without improvements with flat plate shoes. When shoe mass was matched between footwear with increased LBS vs. non‐increased LBS conditions, RE improved (3.15%). However, when shoe mass was not controlled (experimental condition with ∼35 grams extra), a significant small improvement was found. These RE improvements appear along with an increase of stride length and contact time. Shoe mass, type of plate (flat or curve) and running speed should be taken into consideration when designing a shoe aimed at improving long‐distance running performance.

The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of different resistance training programs on jump performance and body composition of female volleyball players of the highest Spanish division league over 24 weeks of training. Ten female volleyball players (27.41 ± 4.94 years; 72.2 ± 8.5 kg; 179.7 ± 6.4 cm) completed 24 weeks of training and testing using a linear periodization, progressing from general conditioning (weeks 1-4), to hypertrophy (weeks 5-8), then to maximum strength and power (weeks 9-16) and concluding with a specific strength training (weeks 17-24). Body composition was measured using bioelectrical-impedance analysis, and neuromuscular capacity was estimated by squat jump, countermovement jump, Abalakov jump, and 2 repetition maxima (2RM). After initial evaluation (PRE), the players were tested on 3 different occasions (POST: fourth week, POST 1: eighth week and POST 2: 24th week) of the training cycle. Muscle mass increased on (4.5%, p < 0.05) and fat-free mass (4.38%, p < 0.05), whereas fat percent decreased (13.90%, p < 0.05). All neuromuscular performance tests were increased from PRE to POST 2 (ranging from 17.64 to 20.89%, p < 0.01) and from POST 1 to POST 2 (ranging from 4.62 to 7.56% p < 0.01). The results suggest that the volleyball players studied continued improving power and strength capacity together with body composition during the course of the study. Finally, as major application, these data provide normative and performance standards for female volleyball players.