Supertraining

Here's my book review for:

Block Periodization Breakthrough in Sports Training

by Dr. Vladimir Issurin

In my opinion its content is highly relevant, not only, for
professionals in sport and exercise science, but for athletes,
coaches and others interested in the field of human performance.  The
book is well written and is presented in an easy to read format
containing numerous schematics which assist the readers'
understanding.  The introduction sets the scene effectively by
presenting some of the relevant differences between "traditional
periodisation" and the block concept.

It blends both the result of scientific and Issurin's applied work in
addition to the citation of Western and Eastern literature.   It
is actually a very worthwhile addition to the existing body of
literature IMO.

>From the preface:
In general, it assumes the use and sequencing of specialized
mesocycle-blocks, in which highly concentrated training workloads are
focused on a minimal number of motor and technical abilities. Unlike
traditional periodization where simultaneous development of many
abilities is prevalent, the block concept proposes consecutive
training of carefully selected components.

There are five chapters in the book that are united by the general
idea of Block Periodization that provides both the scientific
background and practical consequences of this revamped training
system.

Chapter 1 elucidates the Block Periodization concept. This chapter
presents criticism of traditional periodization and provides the vii
bases and benefits of the alternative approach.

Chapter 2 deals with the single workout, namely, workout types and
structures, sequence and compatibility of different exercises, and
the structure of a one day training series.

Chapter 3 explains how to design different type training microcycles.
Also, the mesocycles for accumulation, transmutation and realization
are analyzed and discussed.

Chapter 4 is devoted to long-term preparation, namely, to annual and
quadrennial plans, and the bases of long-term preparation of adult
and junior athletes. The basic approach to identifying gifted
youngsters is given special consideration.

Chapter 5 describes the bases of altitude training, focused in
particular on how to construct the optimal Block Periodization plan
that includes training camps at altitude. The proposed guidelines are
based on long-term experiences of high-level athletes in altitude
training.

Jamie Carruthers
Wakefield, UK