A week-by-week 12-week plan
Three 4-week blocks, an in-block volume wave and a deload week at the end of each block. The plan content adapts automatically to the child’s maturation period (pre/circa/post-PHV).
Frequently asked questions
What is periodization and do children need it?
It is the planned waving of training load. In children the goal is not peak performance but preventing overload, making room for skill learning and respecting growth periods.
Does training stop completely in a deload week?
No; volume drops to ~50-60% and intensity stays low. The week leans on technique, flexibility and play. Active recovery, not full stoppage.
What does the volume percentage mean?
It is relative to the child’s normally tolerated weekly training time in that period. E.g. 80% means roughly four-fifths of a normal week’s total time/repetitions.
What happens after the 12 weeks?
Update the height measurement and rebuild the plan: if growth velocity changed, the plan switches to a different maturation template. Blocks can be shifted with the coach to fit the season calendar.
Scientific basis
Lloyd & Oliver 2012 (YPD), Granacher et al. 2016 (youth strength periodization), Bompa & Haff (Periodization), Balyi & Hamilton 2004 (LTAD). Not a substitute for coaching.