What does the time/duration principle refer to in training?

The time/duration principle in training emphasizes both the overall duration of a training session and the length of specific intervals within that session. This principle acknowledges that the effectiveness of training can be influenced by how long one trains in general and how long one dedicates to various segments, such as high-intensity intervals or recovery periods. By carefully managing these durations, athletes can optimize their performance, ensuring they are training effectively without overtraining or undertraining.

For instance, longer sessions may improve endurance, while shorter, intense intervals can boost power and speed. Therefore, recognizing the complete structure of timing—including overall session length and specific intervals—allows for a well-rounded training approach that can be tailored to meet specific goals.