In the weeks leading up to a competition, many athletes reduce their training intensity and volume. When to start and how much to cut back is a matter of debate. A study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research offers these tips from open-class Croatian power lifting champions.

Most athletes reduced training volume in steps, reaching a 50% reduction between 8 and 5 days prior to the event. Training frequency was also cut in half in the week before competition, limiting the work to competition specific movements and equipment. This helped competitors maintain strength while reducing fatigue.