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Explain periodization of training as you would to a capable student, in 3-4 sentences.

Periodization is the systematic planning of athletic training that divides your program into specific time blocks, each with a particular focus and goal. Instead of training the same way year-round, you strategically vary the volume, intensity, and type of training across cycles—typically moving from higher volume/lower intensity work that builds a base, to lower volume/higher intensity work that sharpens performance for competition. This approach prevents plateaus and overtraining while ensuring you peak at the right time, as your body adapts best when stress is applied progressively and varied systematically. Think of it as a roadmap that guides you from general fitness to sport-specific excellence.