Mikrosyklus

Mikrosyklus is a term used in various disciplines to denote a small, repeating cycle within a larger process or plan. The concept emphasizes a short, complete unit of activity that recurs as part of a longer schedule or system. The exact meaning and length of a mikrosyklus vary by field, but the core idea is that it represents the smallest cycle in a hierarchical sequence.

In sports science and training theory, a mikrosyklus is the shortest training cycle in a periodized plan. It is typically planned to last about one week, though the duration can be shorter or longer depending on the sport, level of competition, and specific goals. A mikrosyklus combines a sequence of workouts, with varying intensity, volume, and recovery, and often culminates in a planned taper or key session. The mikrosyklus lies between the mesocycle (a few weeks to a couple of months) and the macrocycle (the entire training year or longer).

Beyond athletics, the term is used more broadly to describe short, recurring cycles in processes such as production planning, software development, or routine operational workflows. In these contexts, a mikrosyklus helps establish rhythm, feedback, and incremental adjustments within a larger cycle of activity.

Historically, the idea of breaking planning into cycles is associated with periodization theory in sports, popularized in the 20th century. The mikrosyklus remains a flexible concept, with definitions tailored to the objectives and constraints of each field.