#279 – M.E.D. Masterclass #7: How to Peak for a Meet (Conjugate vs Concurrent Method)

In the seventh installment of the MED (Minimum Effective Dose) Masterclass series, Professor Matt discusses how to approach tapering and peaking for a meet or athletic performance using MED principles.

In Matt’s view, how you peak depends on what training approach you used leading up to the meet. A lifter training in a conjugate or DUP (daily undulating periodization) program will naturally have a longer peak as he must transition from the accumulation and transmutation phases to more specific, lower volume training closer to what he will do the day of the meet. On the other hand, a lifter training in a concurrent program is much closer to being ready for a meet at any given time, because the nature of his programming is more specific to the demands of the meet. Both concurrent and conjugate programs have pros and cons that the lifter and coach must consider, but practically, most lifters will be using a conjugate program that requires a thoughtful approach to peaking.

Articles referenced in the podcast:

• https://www.elitefts.com/education/tapering-for-a-powerlifting-meet/
• https://www.jtsstrength.com/peaking-powerlifting/