Which period is characterized by hypertrophy and endurance training?

The preparatory period is primarily focused on developing a foundation of fitness and is characterized by hypertrophy and endurance training. During this phase, the emphasis is on building muscle size and improving the endurance capacity of athletes. This foundation is crucial as it prepares the athlete for more intense training that will occur later in the program, including the competition period where specific skills and strategies are honed.

Hypertrophy training involves exercises designed to induce muscle growth through increased volume and resistance, while endurance training enhances the muscular and cardiovascular/respiratory systems’ capacity to sustain prolonged physical activity. By combining these elements in the preparatory period, athletes can improve their overall performance and reduce the risk of injury as they progress into more specialized training phases.