Training theory and taper: validation in triathlon athletes

This paper defines a training theory with which to predict the effectivenes s of various formats of taper in optimizing physical performance from a sta ndardized period of training and taper. Four different taper profiles: step reduction vs exponential (exp) decay and fast vs slow exp decay tapers, we re simulated in a systems model to predict performance p(t) resulting from a standard square-wave quantity of training for 28 days. The relative effec tiveness of each of the profiles in producing optimal physical improvement above pre-taper criterion physical test standards (running and cycle ergome try) was determined. Simulation showed that an exp taper was better than a step-reduction taper, and a fast exp decay taper was superior to a slow exp decay taper. The results of the simulation were tested experimentally in f ield trials to assess the correspondence between simulation and real-traini ng criterion physical tests in triathlon athletes. The results showed that the exp taper (tau = 5 days) group made a significantly greater improvement above a pre-taper standard (P less than or equal to 0.05) than the step-re duction taper group in cycle ergometry, and was better, but not significant ly so, in a 5-km run. A fast exp taper group B (tau = 4 days) performed sig nificantly better (P less than or equal to 0.05) in maximal, cycle ergometr y above a pre-taper training standard than a slow exp taper group A (tau = 8 days) and was improved more, but not significantly so, than group A in a 5-km criterion run. The mean improvement on both physical tests by exp deca y taper groups all increased significantly (P less than or equal to 0.05) a bove their pre-taper training standard. Maximum oxygen uptake increased sig nificantly in a group of eight remaining athletes during 2 weeks of final t aper after three athletes left early for final preparations at the race sit e.