If you’re looking to get the most out of your training program, you must understand basic periodization strength training principles. Simply going to the gym and working out will help for a short time. But without a plan, you will eventually plateau out and fail to make gains. Periodization is one way to approach the design of resistance training programs. It is defined as the planned manipulation of training variables (load, sets, and repetitions) and the systematic arrangement of training into cycles to prevent stagnation and achieve peak performance. Periodization is meant to maximize training adaptations, prevent the onset of overtraining syndrome, improve adherence to the training regimen, allow for constant progression, help in avoiding plateaus, and reduce the occurrence and severity of injuries. One of the most effective ways to periodize your workouts is to alternate between accumulation and intensification phases. An accumulation phase emphasizes volume, which is how much work is performed overall, so these types of workouts usually feature higher repetitions performed with relatively light weights. An intensification phase emphasizes intensity, which is how much weight is lifted per exercise, so these types of workouts usually feature lower reps performed with heavier weights.