Periodisation - the Natural Enemy of Skill Progressions

When I was young, passionate and idealistic, I was coaching a develop squad and set out a periodised plan. Everything made sense. Everything fit together. It was an impressive document, if I do say so myself.

When I was old, pragmatic and wise (?), I was coaching the same development squad (different athletes by now!). I had a loose periodised plan (mainly for load management), but mostly planned based on skill progressions.

The difference between the two is that, with skill progressions you move on once you have achieved the level of competence you were striving for, but with a periodised plan you move on when you have scheduled to do the next thing.

(Photo Credit)