What is periodization: planned training variation

What is periodization? There are misconceptions about what periodization is, and debates about if it is needed in today's training world. In this episode, certified trainers Aaron Patterson and Frank Eyeson dive into the topic to define periodization, distinguish it from programming, and discuss the value of using it when structuring your overall plan.

Additional Resources

NSCA Essentials of Personal Training, Third Edition https://ecs.page.link/mGTnY

NSCA Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning, Fourth Edition https://ecs.page.link/X8euc

NSCA's Guide to Program Design, Second Edition https://ecs.page.link/Stqis 

Scientific Foundations and Practical Applications of Periodization https://ecs.page.link/LXe7K

Periodization of Strength Training for Sports, Fourth Edition https://ecs.page.link/Majin

Periodization: Theory and Methodology of Training, Sixth Edition https://ecs.page.link/vL53G

Aaron Patterson, M.S., NSCA-CPT, CWPC, CSAC, CTPS 

Aaron provides informative and educational content for Human Kinetics in the areas of health, fitness, strength and conditioning, and sport performance including exercise technique videos, author interviews, and podcast episodes.

Certified through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), Aaron has over 11 years of experience as a personal trainer and sport performance coach. He holds specialty certifications as a Certified Weightlifting Performance Coach (CWPC), Certified Speed and Agility Coach (CSAC), and Certified Tennis Performance Specialist (CTPS). Training primarily middle school and high school athletes, Aaron recognized the growing need for athletes to also work on their mental performance. It was then that he pursued his master's degree in Kinesiology with a focus in Exercise and Sport Psychology to become a Certified Mental Performance Consultant.

As a track and field coach specializing in jumps and sprints, Aaron is also a Certified American Sport Education Program Coach, and is a member of the National High School Strength Coaches Association (NHSSCA), the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). Aaron completed his Master of Science in Kinesiology, Exercise and Sport Psychology, from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville.

Frank Eyeson, MS, NASM-CPT, CWC, CNC,

Frank Eyeson provides informative and educational content for Human Kinetics in the areas of health and fitness, including exercise technique videos and podcast episodes. As a marketing and social media manager, Frank also develops strategic campaigns that connect audiences with trusted, evidence-based resources to help them move better, train smarter, and live healthier.

With over 10 years of experience in the fitness industry, Frank is a certified personal trainer, wellness coach, and nutrition coach through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). He holds a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology from Western Illinois University and a master's degree in Strategic Brand Communication from the University of Illinois.

Frank’s content resonates with health-conscious individuals and fitness professionals alike, bridging the gap between expert knowledge and real-world application. On the Human Kinetics podcast, he brings a grounded, audience-first voice to conversations covering everything fitness—from strength training, recovery, and sport performance to nutrition, mental health, injury prevention, and overall wellness. He is passionate about making fitness education accessible, sustainable, and rooted in science.

Outside of the gym and work, Frank enjoys reading, listening to podcasts, traveling, and relaxing with a good show.