Mesocicli

Mesocicli, in the context of periodization in athletic training, refers to medium-term training cycles. These cycles typically last from 4 to 12 weeks and are designed to achieve specific training goals. They represent a bridge between the longer-term macrocycle, which encompasses an entire training year or season, and the shorter microcycles, which are usually daily or weekly training plans.

The primary purpose of a mesocycle is to develop a particular fitness component or skill set. For example, a mesocycle might focus on building strength, increasing endurance, improving speed, or enhancing technical proficiency in a specific sport. Within a mesocycle, training intensity, volume, and exercise selection are manipulated to progressively overload the athlete and stimulate adaptation.

Mesocicli are structured to build upon the work done in previous mesocycles and prepare the athlete for subsequent ones. They often follow a pattern of preparation, competition, and recovery phases, though the emphasis on each phase can vary depending on the overall training plan and the athlete's competitive schedule. For instance, a preparatory mesocycle might involve higher volume and lower intensity to build a base, while a competitive mesocycle would shift towards higher intensity and lower volume to peak performance. The progression within a mesocycle is crucial to avoid plateaus and ensure continued improvement.