Date of Award

1998

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Master of Physical Therapy (MPT)

Department

Physical Therapy

First Advisor

Mark Romanick

Keywords

Muscles -- physiology

Abstract

Currently no literature or studies in the physical therapy profession explore the use of periodization of strength principles. Therefore, the purpose of this independent study will be to perform a literature review of periodization of strength and how these training concepts are applicable to physical therapy.

Periodization is a strengthening technique which varies the training stimulus so that continuous gains in strength are accrued. The general progression of training is from low intensity and high volume to high intensity and low volume. To achieve these changes in intensity and volume the number of sets, repetitions, and load is periodically changed.

It would be prudent to use periodization techniques with patients since it has been demonstrated to be the most effective technique for inducing strength gains. This paper will enable the reader to construct a periodization program for athletes as well as for the general patient population in physical therapy.

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