Periodisation and Polarisation for Endurance Athletes

SKILLBOOSTERS

The topic of periodisation has long been a buzz word in the training community, and we can sometimes feel intimidated by the technicalities behind the term. However, many of us to some extent have been practising forms of periodisation unintentionally, from taking a rest day to upping your training before race day. Our subject matter experts will dissect what it is to periodise and polarise your training and leave you with skills that you can easily implement into your training. As a result, these Skillboosters will enable you to understand the purpose behind structuring aspects of your training as well as how to purposefully plan your training regimen - skill that you could directly implement into your practice or coaching spaces.

Dr Mike Posthumus

Mike currently holds an honorary senior research associate position within the Division of Exercise Science and Sports Medicine (ESSM) at the University of Cape Town (UCT). Mike is a director of Science to Sport CC, a leading scientific coaching and consultation business with a global footprint, where he coaches several recreationally competitive, national and international athletes. Mike was the head of the High Performance Centre at the Sports Science Institute of South Africa, a position he held with aplomb from 2017 – 2020. Mike is an accomplished and highly competitive sportsman. He has played provincial rugby and is now a competitive mountain biker, having won several top ultra-endurance mountain bike races.

David Leith

David Leith (Exercise Scientist and Biokineticist) discusses 5 research-backed steps that will help you create a smarter running roadmap, that works with your life and goals, not against them. These steps include setting a goal, incorporating periodisation, being selective, being realistic and planning. Whether you want to beat your marathon PR or simply be able to do a 5k without stopping, these steps will assist you in achieving your goal

Rodet Yila

Currently pursuing a Masters degree in Exercise Science while working at the High Performance Centre of the Sports Science Institute of South Africa, whereby he specialises in team sports, track and field athletes, and injury mitigation.