What is the main goal of tapering in athletic training?

The main goal of tapering in athletic training is to ensure full recovery and readiness before competition. Tapering involves gradually reducing training volume and intensity over a period of time leading up to an event. This strategic reduction allows athletes to rest, recover from the physical stresses endured during training, and replenish energy stores, which in turn enhances performance.

During tapering, athletes are given the opportunity to recover from fatigue while maintaining their fitness levels. This process helps to prevent overtraining and promotes optimal performance by allowing the body to adapt to the cumulative training loads experienced in prior weeks. By the time they reach their competition, athletes are typically fresher, more energized, and better prepared both physically and mentally, leading to potentially better outcomes in their performance.