Periodization help

Thanks, Mono, as always I appreciate your input greatly. The only thing I would add is not to totally discount maxR training in terms of developing pure strength since strength is the required foundation upon which to build power.

^ ***I cannot over-emphasize this point enough.*** ^

It is pivotal to any power development in any athlete doing anything anywhere. So, first be strong, then be powerful.

Also, Jon, I agree with Mono about repeaters. In fact, I think they would fall into Zatsiorsky's third method of developing strength and recruitment, the "Repeated Effort". When Mono talks about inducing high metabolic stress, he is essentially talking about elevating certain hormones which induce muscle synthesis (although apparently some new studies show that hormones we believed caused the growth may not be associated at all but may in fact be the result of other(s)).

Jon wrote:Yeah, there's so much out there that conflicts with everything else.

Not really so much when one can read and understand the empirical evidence. But if you mostly read forums of laypeople, then perhaps this observation is true.

TipsBeGone wrote: Perhaps this could be a good article topic for your blog, Mono?

I'm working on it! I get this question at least once a month...just been really busy between climbing and the book coming out.

Aerili wrote: strength is the required foundation upon which to build power...It is pivotal to any power development in any athlete doing anything anywhere. So, first be strong, then be powerful.

I agree completely, and I think if you look at our hangboard protocols, they lean toward the Max R end of the Strength spectrum.

My primary point is, select the right training tools when possible: train Strength on the Hangboard, train Power on the bouldering wall and/or Campus Board. You can train Max R on a HB in a pinch, but you will miss out on the power aspect, not to mention the lack of specificity relative to Limit Bouldering.

Regarding the age-old argument as to whether dead hangs or repeaters are most effective at developing maximum strength, I found this recent article by Steve Maisch on his new blog to be the most comprehensive comparison of the literature to date:

stevemaischtraining.com/iso…

I would be very interested to read new articles by other credible training gurus like Mono who present alternate ideas as well!