In this episode, we explore the concept of periodization – intentionally changing your workout routine for a specific period of time. As we enter summer, it’s the perfect opportunity to consider how to adapt your fitness approach to match the season, your energy levels, and your lifestyle. 

Why Consider Periodization?

For many, workouts are a matter of routine—running, lifting, swimming—but what happens when that routine starts to feel stale? Enter periodization, a method originally reserved for elite athletes that involves intentionally changing your workouts, often with a specific goal. Whether you’re striving for something specific or just looking to mix things up, periodization offers numerous benefits:

1. Prevent Plateaus: Changing your routine helps break through plateaus where progress stalls.
2. Reduce Injury Risk: Diversifying your movements decreases injury chances by avoiding repetitive strain.
3. Boost Motivation: New activities provide excitement and keep your mindset fresh.
4. Adaptability: It allows adjustments based on life seasons, especially beneficial for women in perimenopause.

Implementing Periodization

Here’s how you can practically apply periodization:

Seasonal Changes

Switch things up with the seasons. For example, use summer to embrace outdoor activities like swimming, paddleboarding, or water workouts. Fall might focus on strength training. Winter can be a time for maintenance and flexibility.

Weekly Structure

Plan your week with diverse activities:

• Monday, Wednesday, Friday: Strength training
• Tuesday: Cardio or a gentle walk
• Thursday: Balance and core exercises
• Saturday: Active recovery
• Sunday: Rest or gentle movement

Resistance Variety

Changing your resistance training methods—dumbbells, kettlebells, resistance bands, or body weight—offers fresh challenges to your muscles.

Summer-Specific Ideas

With the warmer weather:

• Try Water Workouts: Swimming, aqua fitness classes, or even treading water in the deep end for a challenge.
• Beat the Heat: Work out early morning or late evening.
• Travel-Ready Fitness: Pack resistance bands and use online resources for equipment-free routines.

Ultimately, periodization helps you tailor your fitness routine to your life. It provides the grace to adapt—whether that’s embracing a slower pace due to busy summer schedules or capitalizing on outdoor activities. So, this summer, explore how you can incorporate periodization into your workouts in a way that works for your schedule and energy levels. Don’t shy away from changes—they’re not just okay, they’re encouraged!

As you ponder how to make periodization work for you, invite others along on your journey. Share the concept with a friend or workout partner who might benefit. Together, let’s age with grace and strength and leave those funny looks behind by confidently explaining that your break is simply smart, well-structured periodization.

Okay, that’s all for today. Go out there and have a graced day!

Episode Discussed

How to slow the aging process with exercise with Pete McCall

Link Discussed

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