Four week cycles are used and have loading and unloading weeks. Six week cycles are also used during the year as athletes respond to changing the length of cycles during the yearly plan. Six weeks before a major championship, the loading pattern includes two weeks lower volume, two weeks heavy, one week max loading and one week lower volume. During this time, more emphasis is placed on the classical lifts.
Lifters perform segment work in the classic lifts.
The lifters do singles, doubles and triples as well. This is hard work, but it is a key factor for the development of strength. Segment training is also used combining front and back squats. During the preparatory period, lifters do a significant number of squats, pulls and presses in sets of five repetitions. The lifters have nine training sessions per week.