In strength and conditioning, periodization refers to the strategic and systematic cycling of the various aspects of the training. In powerlifting, for example, this might include hypertrophy, strength, and peaking cycles. Cycles are usually defined as macrocycles (a complete training cycle that spans the time between subsequent meaningful events, e.g., a year), mesocycles (generally anywhere between 3 and 6 weeks), and microcycles (usually one week). Periodizing one’s training has the benefit of phase potentiation—the building of one phase off of the preceding phase (hypertrophy, for example, provides a base upon which to build strength and strength permits subsequent hypertrophy).
Life is full of cycles. We have seasonal cycles (Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall), daily cycles (night and day), weekly cycles, and so on. Over the course of life, we proceed through childhood, young adulthood, adulthood, old age, etc. We cycle from single to married to, perhaps, widowed. We are without children, with children, with teens, and, ultimately, become empty nesters. Some sadly lose children prematurely. All through these cycles, we continue to grow and our experiences shape who we are becoming. One can say (we hope) that we experience a sort of phase potentiation.
Life has an appropriate cycle for growth. We should not be making the same mistakes as an adult as we did as a teenager. We should, however, be experiencing failures along the way to help us grow. History should prepare us for the next phase.
If we neglect a necessary stimulus for growth along the way, our long-term growth will be stunted. We will not have the foundation upon with to build.
I fear that we are robbing our young of the social conflict that will build integrity and character. Rather we shield them from disappointment, provide then with hollow rewards, and build a sense of entitlement. Certainly, we don’t want to subject them to harm, but we must allow them to be challenged Spiritually, Physically, Intellectually, Emotionally, and Socially. We must let them experience failure, rejection, and disappointment—as well as success, acceptance, and satisfaction. There are a time and place for all things (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8). As adults, we, too, need to experience these, as we continue to grow. Growth takes effort. Growth takes a plan.
Be the best you can be; be better tomorrow.
Carpe momento!