Periodization in extracurricular sports training: improvement in physical and technical performance

Periodization is a key approach in sports training, optimizing physical performance; its application in extracurricular training is limited, highlighting the need to study its effectiveness in these contexts. The aim of the research was to evaluate the effectiveness of periodization in the physical performance of student-athletes in an extracurricular setting. The pre-experimental study with a quantitative approach compared pre- and post-intervention measurements in 54 student-athletes, using a structured questionnaire and physical tests of strength, endurance, and agility. The training program was based on periodization. Pre- and post-intervention measurements showed significant improvements in strength, cardiovascular endurance, agility, and motor coordination. Participants improved in the categories of strength, endurance, agility, and motor coordination, with statistically significant changes (p < 0.05). The periodization-based training program proved to be effective in improving the physical performance of young athletes in extracurricular contexts, optimizing their strength, endurance, agility, and coordination, even in environments with limited resources.