Block periodization is a great method of training and improving high-level player performance. This is especially true in sports that have a great deal of competition as in football.
Block periodization in this case consists of weekly cycles corresponding to each weekly game. It is also successfully used prior to beginning the season. It is not beneficial in the physical preparation phase.
Before beginning any block program, each player should be evaluated on his performance, especially in gameplay. Then the weekly program is constructed and adjusted according to areas that need improvement or correction or if the player needs rehabilitation, etc.. This is very important since it determines the content of the block program.
Block periodization is especially effective when it calls for improvement in specific skills or physical abilities that a player needs work on. For football, block periodization is ideal as it is for many sports in season or approaching the season when there is not much time between competitions. In other words, it is great for preparing the athlete for competition.
In a block training program each weekly program should be different for each athlete while at the same time the entire team can be involved in some of the same training needed in preparation for the next opponent. The block should be aimed specifically at individual players who need improvement or maintenance of specific physical or technical qualities.
Thus a block program is great because it can be adjusted easily to work on one or two specific technical and/or physical qualities. It lends itself very nicely to maintaining the player’s ability to play on a high level in season by adjusting the programs for each player to ensure his playability for the next game.
For more information on block training see Block Periodization and the block periodization DVD by Vladimir Issurin.