When planning a training year it is important to use periodisation in order to structure the year well and ensure the athlete peaks in performance at the right time. Periodisation is the process of breaking the year down into smaller time periods in order to structure the training program effectively.

Periodisation has three main subphases:

• the macrocycle,
• mesocycle, and
• microcycle.

These combine together to create the year-long training year. The training year will often have the three (3) phases of competition, which are used to guide the focus of the training program. The three (3) phases are:

• pre-season,
• in-season, and
• off-season.

Furthermore, the development of a year-long training program will utilise the concepts of peaking and tapering to help ensure the athlete is performing their best when it is required. In addition to this, each sport will have its own specific subphase focusing on the relevant components of fitness.