Every coach knows the challenge: push athletes hard enough to improve, but not so hard that they break down. Finding this sweet spot is both an art and a science.
The Goldilocks Zone
Research shows that there is an optimal training load range where performance improvements are maximized while injury risk remains low. This zone varies for each athlete based on their fitness level, training history, and recovery capacity.
Internal vs External Load
External load refers to the work done (distance covered, weights lifted), while internal load measures the body response to that work (heart rate, perceived exertion). Both metrics are essential for understanding how an athlete is responding to training.
Periodization Principles
Effective training programs follow periodization principles, alternating between periods of high and low intensity. This approach allows for both adaptation and recovery, leading to long-term performance gains without burnout.
With PULSESSIVO.AI, coaches can visualize training loads over time and make data-driven decisions about when to push harder and when to ease off.