As we’ve mentioned above, there are a number of variables we can change, other than just the training phase.
These other variables include the number of sets we perform per exercise, the number of exercises we use in a session, the load (weight), the number of repetitions in a set of exercises, the speed with which we perform a movement and, importantly, the amount of rest we take between each set.
The key to periodisation is being organised enough to plan your next phase.
When you’re organised and have planned in advance, you can move on as soon as your body has adapted to the current physical stimulus.
You’ll know when you get there because you’ll feel things feel easier. This is when you need to push yourself and move to the next level.
Otherwise, you’ll just keep on doing the same old thing, and your results will fade as quickly as your motivation to succeed.
Through careful planning using the principle of variation, or periodisation, plateaux can be broken and continuous, dramatic results are possible.
For those who are new to these strategies, we hope you decide to take the time to implement the basic plan we’ve covered here – it’s worth every second.
Get yourself a few blank sheets of paper and pen, or a spreadsheet, and start taking control of the next 12 weeks of your exercise program now!