What does tapering refer to in athletic training?

Tapering refers to a strategic reduction in training volume and intensity before a competition or event. This approach allows athletes to recover from the accumulated fatigue of their training, while still maintaining fitness levels. The period of tapering helps the body to repair muscle tissue, replenish energy stores, and adapt to the training stress, ultimately leading to improved performance on competition day.

During tapering, athletes typically decrease the duration and intensity of their workouts. This reduction can vary in length, depending on the sport and the individual athlete’s needs, but it generally occurs in the weeks leading up to the event. This practice is crucial as it helps to ensure that athletes are well-rested and at peak physical condition when it is time to compete.